If you are an astronomy enthusiast, you are in for a treat! A rare celestial event will unfold tomorrow as four planets align in the night sky. This stunning display will be visible to the naked eye, so you won’t need a telescope to enjoy the spectacle. The planets Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars will align, peaking on Tuesday, January 21, and Saturday, January 25, shortly after sunset. Here’s everything you need to know!
To catch this spectacular event, the best time to look up is approximately 45 minutes after sunset. Venus and Saturn will shine brightly in the southwest, while Jupiter will dominate the southeast, and Mars will glow in the east.
When and Where to Watch These Planets
For the best viewing experience, find a dark location away from city lights, and look towards the southwestern horizon for an unobstructed view. The planets will remain visible for about three hours before Venus and Saturn set in the west, giving you ample time to soak in the beauty of the cosmos.
In addition to these four planets, Neptune and Uranus can also be observed with the help of a telescope. Neptune will be positioned above Venus and Saturn, while Uranus will be located above Jupiter. However, Mercury will remain hidden from view.
The highlight of this planetary parade is the closeness of Venus and Saturn. The last time these two planets shared such proximity was on January 18. Venus, the second brightest object in the night sky after the moon, outshone Saturn by a staggering 110 times, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. Even after the conjunction, these planets will continue to appear close together, offering a breathtaking sight.
Finally, mark your calendars! The planetary parade will be joined by a crescent moon on January 31, appearing just one degree from Saturn, and later nearing Venus on February 1.
Don’t miss out on this celestial event! For more exciting updates and astronomy-related content, be sure to check out Looffers.com.
