Who hasn’t used the expression “when the planets align” to describe a rare and special moment? Today, and for about a week, we can say that the planets literally align – you can see all seven planets, some with the naked eye. This celestial event is a rare treat, and with a little planning, you can enjoy the show.
What is a planetary alignment?
A planetary alignment doesn’t mean that the planets are in a straight line with respect to the sun, but rather that they are positioned in a way that, from Earth, they appear to be in a line. This line is called the ecliptic, and our position within this plane allows us to see the planets aligned in the sky.
How to see the seven planets in the sky?
According to the Institute of Astrophysics of the Canary Islands, during this planetary alignment, you can see all seven planets, although some are easier to spot than others. Five planets – Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn – can be located with the naked eye, but you’ll need a telescope to see Uranus and Neptune. The moon will also be visible. To distinguish the planets, you’ll need to use a telescope. Here’s how to spot them:
* Venus is relatively easy to find: it’s the brightest object at medium height to the west.
* Jupiter is also brilliant and will be almost vertically at sunset.
* Following the line to the east from Jupiter, you can locate Mars with its reddish tone.
* Mercury will be close to the west horizon.
* Saturn is the weakest of these brilliant points and can be found between Mercury and the horizon, but it’s the most challenging to spot.
* With a telescope, Uranus and Neptune can be seen as bluish points, but without much detail.
Where will the planetary alignment be better?
To enjoy this astronomical event, it’s essential to consider the weather. According to forecasts, the best areas to observe this event are the northern communities, where there will be fewer clouds in the sky. Galicia, Basque Country, Asturias, and Cantabria will have a privileged view of the planetary alignment. To see the alignment better, get away from areas with light pollution, find a high spot with a clear view of the western horizon, and avoid clouds.
What is the best time to see the alignment of planets?
The optimal moment to enjoy this show is at sunset, around 7:00 p.m., although the best viewing time varies depending on your location. It’s best to arrive a little before sunset to let your eyes adjust to the light. The alignment will be visible from 5:30 p.m., and the planets will start to disappear one by one:
* Saturn: 7:50 p.m.
* Mercury: 8:22 p.m.
* Neptune: 8:34 p.m.
* Venus: 9:52 p.m.
* Uranus: 1:21 a.m.
* Jupiter: 2:55 a.m.
* Mars: 5:47 a.m.
How do the planets look in the sky?
The size of each planet doesn’t determine its apparent size in the sky. The distance of each planet from Earth affects how large it appears. For example, Venus is smaller than Earth, but due to its distance, it appears larger.
When will the next planetary alignment be?
The next opportunity to enjoy a planetary conjunction will be in 2025, with alignments on April 25 and August 20. However, the next alignment of all the planets won’t occur until May 19, 2161. If we exclude the planets that can’t be seen with the naked eye, the next alignment will be on September 8, 2040.
Planetary alignments have often been shrouded in mysticism, but science has shown that a perfect conjunction of all eight planets is never produced. Nonetheless, this event is a rare and special treat that’s worth witnessing.