LUBBOCK, TX — Skywatchers will get a rare chance to see six planets in a spectacular alignment this week. Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Venus, and Saturn will be visible to the naked eye, creating what’s known as a “planetary parade.”
While planets line up in the sky frequently, seeing so many of them at once is not common. Although this kind of alignment happens occasionally, it’s not every year that four or five bright planets are visible together.
NASA says the term "planetary parade" is not an official astronomical term, but the moniker has become popular among astronomers around the world.
The best time to view the alignment will be on Tuesday, January 21, and Wednesday, January 22, but the event will still be visible for a few days into the week. The planets will be spread out across the sky, each in a different location.
According to Star Walk, Mars will appear in the eastern sky in the constellation Gemini, while Jupiter will be higher up in the sky in Taurus. Uranus will be visible in Aries, and Neptune will be located in Pisces. Venus and Saturn will be seen in the western sky, close to each other in the constellation Aquarius.
Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Venus, and Saturn will be visible to the naked eye, creating what’s known as a “planetary parade.”
(Credit: starwalk.space)
In the Northern Hemisphere, the best viewing will be anytime this week, especially in places like New York City. However, buildings or mountains could block the view, so finding an open land area is best.
One way to tell planets apart from stars is by their steady light. While stars tend to twinkle, planets shine with a constant glow. NASA also notes that planets move through different constellations over time while stars stay in the same place.
Although the planetary parade technically started on January 10, the peak viewing time is expected to be around January 21. The event will still be visible into February, so there’s plenty of time to check the night sky.
Another similar alignment will happen on August 19 and 20, says NASA.
Six Planets Align for a “Planetary Parade” This Week
(Credit: starwalk.space)
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