Leading Thai astrologist Pinyo Pongcharoen said the "planet of war" would have a greater influence over the earth's inhabitants as it movers closer than it has been in the last 60,000 years.

"When it comes towards the earth, people should be careful about their emotions because it will put people in a bad mood and spark conflicts," he told the Thai-language Daily News Wednesday.

"It will also increase the chances of war, terrorism and accidents," he added.

However, with the rainy season in full swing in Thailand and storms battering Bangkok most afternoons, there are fears that poor weather could prevent Thais from getting a good look at the Red Planet.

"Poor visibility could be a problem. But if the sky is clear, the rare spectacle can be viewed from anywhere in the world," Worawit Tanwuthibundit from the Thai Astronomical Society told the Nation newspaper.

Crowds have been gathering at the Science Ministry to catch a glimpse of the spectacle through the three telescopes and large projectors installed for the public.

On August 27, the Red Planet will be 55.76 million kilometresmillion miles) from Earth, according to Belgian astronomer Jean Meeus, who says the two planets last came as close nearly 60,000 years ago.

The next time the two planets will be closer than in 2003 will be in 2287.

SPACE.WIRE