Astronomers and stargazers have been excited about a visible line of planets in our solar system, prompting online chatter and media coverage about a possible seven-planet alignment. However, NASA warns that not all seven planets will be visible to the naked eye in the United States. Despite this, the sight of multiple planets appearing in the night sky is still a rare and exciting event that only occurs every few years.
The planets in our solar system orbit the sun in the same plane, known as the ecliptic, causing them to appear in a line when viewed from Earth. This phenomenon, known as a planetary alignment, sometimes results in a “planet parade” where multiple planets are visible without the need for telescopes.
In February, four planets – Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Uranus – have been visible in the night sky, with Mercury expected to join in by late February. Venus and Neptune are also around, but may require a telescope to see. These planet parades must be observed during twilight between dawn and sunset, and a dark location with minimal light pollution is ideal for viewing.
While planetary alignments are not necessarily rare, the opportunity to see multiple planets simultaneously is an uncommon and exciting event for astronomers and stargazers. The current planet parade is expected to end by mid-to-late February as Saturn becomes increasingly lower in the sky each night after sunset.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
