NEW YORK (AP) – By the conclusion of February, an alignment of six celestial bodies will grace the night sky, with the majority discernible to the unaided eye.
This celestial event is characterized as a planetary parade, a phenomenon occurring when numerous planets appear to converge in the sky simultaneously. While not forming a precise linear formation, these planets will be situated proximate to each other on one side of the sun.
According to NASA, stargazers typically have the opportunity to observe two or three planets post-sunset. Gatherings of four or five planets, visible without optical aid, are less frequent, manifesting only every few years. The preceding year witnessed alignments of six and even all seven planets.
When will they be visible?
On Saturday, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn are slated for visibility to the naked eye, contingent on atmospheric clarity. Uranus and Neptune, however, will require the assistance of binoculars or telescopes for observation.
What time is optimal for viewing?
It is recommended to commence observations approximately one hour after sunset, venturing to locations free from obstructing tall structures and foliage. Direct your gaze toward the western expanse to locate Mercury, Venus, and Saturn situated close to the horizon. Jupiter will appear at a higher elevation, accompanied by Uranus and Neptune.
How to know if you’ve spied a member of the parade?
“A twinkling celestial object indicates a star; conversely, an object that does not twinkle is a planet,” elucidated planetary scientist Sara Mazrouei from Humber Polytechnic in Canada.
The planetary procession is anticipated to be observable throughout the weekend and in the subsequent days. Eventually, Mercury will recede from view, descending below the horizon.
NASA reports that a minimum of one luminous planet is typically visible on most evenings.
The experience of observing numerous planets in the sky concurrently offers a profound connection to ancient astronomers, as conveyed by planetary scientist Emily Elizondo of Michigan State University.
“Ancient astronomers endeavored to comprehend the cosmos solely through visual observation of the stars and planets,” Elizondo stated, “a practice that remains accessible to us today.”
