Seven Planets Align: Last Chance Until 2040!
Dr Robert Massey from the Royal Astronomical Society offers tips to Pallab Ghosh on how to spot the planets in a rare celestial event known as a “planetary parade.” This week, seven planets—Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Venus, Neptune, Mercury, and Saturn—are expected to be visible in the evening sky. This phenomenon will not occur again until 2040.
The best opportunity to view all these planets will come just after sunset on Tuesday through Friday. Four of the planets—Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, and Mars—can be seen with the naked eye. However, Saturn will appear low in the horizon and may require a telescope to spot Uranus and Neptune.
A clear view of the horizon along with unobstructed skies increases your chances of spotting all seven planets. Dr Edward Bloomer from the Royal Observatory Greenwich emphasizes that there’s a unique chance for viewers to see seven planets in an accessible location.
As the sun sets, Saturn and Mercury will also be setting, making them particularly challenging to view shortly after sunset. However, Venus, Jupiter, and Mars should remain visible for longer periods afterward. Dr Bloomer notes that while it appears as if the planets line up due to their similar orbital plane around the Sun at different distances from Earth.
Venus and Jupiter’s brightness makes them easier to spot compared with Uranus, which needs perfect eyesight in ideal conditions. For optimal viewing, choose a location with minimal light pollution and clear skies, allowing your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust after sunset.
Dr Bloomer encourages viewers not only to seize this rare opportunity but also make it a habit of observing the night sky regularly to witness ongoing solar system activities. Despite potential cloudy conditions in some areas initially, clearer weather is expected for Thursday and Friday evenings.
The planetary parade offers an excellent chance for amateur astronomers and stargazers alike to appreciate the vastness of our universe up close. So step outside after sunset this week with patience and a clear sky; you might just be treated to one of nature’s most spectacular shows!
