Skywatchers have a unique opportunity this week to witness a rare planetary alignment, where seven planets will be visible simultaneously in the evening sky. This phenomenon will not occur again in such clarity until 2040.
What is a Planetary Parade?
A planetary parade happens when several planets appear to line up from Earth’s perspective. The planets remain at vast distances but seem aligned due to their orbits.
When to Watch?
The best chance to view the alignment is:
- Tuesday to Friday
- Just after sunset
- The window to spot all seven planets will be very short
Which Planets Will Be Visible?
- With the Naked Eye: Venus, Jupiter, Mars, and Mercury
- With a Telescope: Uranus and Neptune
- Hard to Spot: Saturn (due to its low position near the horizon)
How to See the Planets Clearly?
- Choose a location with minimal light pollution
- Find an unobstructed view of the horizon
- Allow your eyes at least 30 minutes to adjust to the dark
- Avoid looking at bright screens like mobile phones
What Makes This Event Special?
This alignment is not only rare but also offers a chance to observe the ongoing motion of the solar system in action.
Conclusion
Skywatchers are encouraged to seize this rare opportunity and make stargazing a regular habit to appreciate the wonders of the universe.
