Credited from: SCMP
Throughout January 2025, astronomy enthusiasts in various regions will have a rare opportunity to witness an extraordinary phenomenon known as a planetary parade, where six of our solar system's planets will align in the night sky. This mesmerizing event will include the visibility of Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, offering stargazers the chance to view these celestial bodies throughout the entire month.
The parade will culminate with a special event on January 25, where observers can expect an impressive display as the planets form a giant arc in the sky. Each evening, especially on clear nights, stargazers can appreciate the unique arrangement that creates the illusion of the planets aligning from our Earthly perspective, despite their actual distances in space. According to space experts cited in multiple sources, planetary parades like this are infrequent occurrences, making this January's event particularly significant.
From January 21, these planets will be observable around 8:30 PM, just after sunset, providing an excellent timeframe for viewing. Astronomers recommend finding locations with minimal light pollution for the best experience. Visible from urban and rural settings alike, prominent planets such as Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn will be visible to the naked eye, while Uranus and Neptune will require a telescope due to their relative faintness.
As the planets move across the night sky, Mars will briefly disappear behind the full moon on January 13 in an event known as occultation, but will reemerge shortly thereafter, presenting a different spectacle for onlookers. This unique series of celestial events provides various opportunities for citizens and stargazers around the world to engage with astronomy in tangible and exciting ways. The alignment of six planets not only captivates the eye but also fuels curiosity about our solar system and its wonders.
Be sure to plan accordingly to capture this once-in-a-lifetime event and take advantage of the live streams and local astronomy events that will be hosted during this remarkable month. Whether in a major city or a quiet rural area, this celestial display promises to be an engaging spectacle for all star lovers.
For more details, visit the original articles from SCMP, Newsweek, and India Times.