‘Parade of Planets’ in January: Alignment with 6 Planets

In January 2025, skywatchers will be treated to a breathtaking astronomical event as six planets align in a rare “planetary parade.” This spectacle will make the night sky even more enchanting, with four planets visible to the naked eye. At the same time, a telescope will reveal Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Venus, Neptune, and Saturn in stunning detail.

When and where to view the parade

According to NASA, the planets will be visible shortly after sunset. Venus and Saturn will appear in the southwest sky, Jupiter will be positioned overhead, and Mars will rise on the eastern horizon. The event will reach its peak on January 21, 2025, when the planets align in a near-perfect arc across the sky, offering the best viewing opportunity.

The presence of the Moon in its final quarter phase will contribute to darker skies, enhancing the visibility of the planetary lineup. While the event is most spectacular on January 21, the planetary parade will be visible for several days before and after, with the majority of planets remaining visible in the evening sky until the end of February.

For those hoping to catch a glimpse of this celestial show, it’s a rare chance to observe multiple planets in such proximity, offering a truly memorable experience for both amateur and seasoned astronomers alike.