People in India will have the chance to see a special celestial event as six planets—Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune—line up in the night sky on the evening of January 21.
While they won’t form a perfect line, they will appear close together from Earth’s view. The alignment will be visible shortly after sunset, around 8:30 PM IST, and can be seen for almost a month.
This alignment is significant as it marks one of the few times in a decade that six planets will be visible simultaneously, with the last occurrence in 2020.
According to V S Syam, secretary of the Amateur Astronomers Organisation (AASTRO), the event highlights the interconnectedness of our universe. While Venus and Mars can be seen with the naked eye, Uranus and Neptune will require telescopes due to their faint luminosity. Jupiter and Saturn, on the other hand, will be visible even in semi-lit areas.
Planetary alignments occur when multiple planets cluster on one side of the Sun, creating a visual phenomenon from Earth’s vantage point. Experts from NASA and ISRO note that while the alignment may not be geometrically perfect, the visual spectacle remains extraordinary. Syam emphasized that this event is an opportunity for everyone to connect with the wonders of the cosmos.
The best viewing locations are away from urban light pollution, such as rural areas or elevated spots. For those in cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai, astronomy clubs will host observation sessions in parks and open spaces. Additionally, live-streamed coverage will be available for those unable to travel.
Beyond this alignment, 2025 will offer more celestial events, including a planetary parade in February and a seven-planet alignment later in the month. Experts caution that alignments with five or more planets will become increasingly rare after 2025, with the next major occurrence expected in 2040.
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