This month and next, Mars will make its closest approach to Earth in recorded history on August 27th, coming within 34,649,589 miles. This is the closest Mars has been in over 60,000 years and it may not occur again for thousands of years. At its closest approach, Mars will appear brighter than any other object in the night sky except the moon. It will be visible all night starting in early August and rising earlier each night, presenting a rare opportunity to see Mars closer than ever before.