NEW YORK. Skywatchers are in for a celestial treat this month as six planets align in a rare planetary parade. According to astronomers, most of these planets can be seen with the naked eye, offering a spectacular show for stargazers around the world.
This alignment, known as a planetary parade, occurs when several planets appear to gather on one side of the sun. While not perfectly aligned, they are close enough to create a striking visual effect in the night sky.
“They’re not in a straight line, but they’re pretty close together on one side of the sun,” explained Hannah Sparkes, planetarium supervisor at the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature in Florida.
A Celestial Spectacle
This phenomenon is not unusual, with similar events happening annually depending on the number of planets involved. A comparable parade last June featured fewer visible planets, with only two observable without special equipment.
This month, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn are visible to the naked eye. For those with binoculars or telescopes, Uranus and Neptune can also be spotted. Mars, in particular, will shine brightly as it is positioned directly opposite the sun.
On Friday and Saturday night, stargazers will have the chance to witness Venus and Saturn appearing especially close—just two degrees apart in the southwestern sky.
Tips for Viewing the Planets
For the best viewing experience, head outside on a clear, cloudless night a few hours after sunset. Face south, and you’ll spot Venus and Saturn glowing in the southwestern sky, Jupiter in the south, and Mars in the southeast or east. The planets will shine brighter than stars, with Mars distinguishable by its reddish-orange hue.
“Consider downloading stargazing apps to help locate the planets,” Sparkes advised.
According to Kevin Williams, planetarium director at Buffalo State University, the planetary alignment offers a unique perspective. “It gives us a little bit better sense of our place in the solar system and the universe,” he said.
A Bonus Sight in February
As a bonus, Mercury is expected to join the lineup at the end of February, making it a seven-planet parade. The celestial show will gradually wind down as the planets move apart through the spring.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has also confirmed the alignment’s visibility this month, providing a rare opportunity for sky enthusiasts in the region.
Don’t miss the chance to witness this awe-inspiring cosmic event and marvel at the beauty of our solar system.
Carlo Juancho FuntanillaFrontend Developer, WordPress, Shopify
Contributing Editor
AMA ACLC San Pablo
- Carlo Juancho Funtanillahttps://tutubi.ph/author/carlojpf/
- Carlo Juancho Funtanillahttps://tutubi.ph/author/carlojpf/
- Carlo Juancho Funtanillahttps://tutubi.ph/author/carlojpf/
- Carlo Juancho Funtanillahttps://tutubi.ph/author/carlojpf/
