Stargazers, mark your calendars! On Jan. 21, 2025, the night sky will host an awe-inspiring event—a rare planetary alignment featuring six planets: Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Venus, and Saturn. Known as a "planetary parade," this celestial phenomenon will dazzle observers and provide a mesmerizing view for both astronomy enthusiasts and casual skywatchers alike.
What Makes This Alignment Special?
This planetary parade is unique for several reasons. Unlike other alignments that often occur in the early hours of the morning, this event will be visible during the evening, from approximately 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., making it accessible to a wider audience. Hunter Miller, an astronomy educator at the Adler Planetarium, told NBC Chicago that the timing and visibility of this event make it particularly exciting.
“The optimal timing and location of the planets in the sky will vary slightly throughout the month, so I recommend using a sky-observing app like Stellarium to know exactly where to look from your location at any given time,” Miller said in the NBC Chicago interview.
In addition to the alignment itself, this event coincides with a lunar occultation of Mars earlier in the month—a rare occurrence in which the moon temporarily obscures the red planet from view. These phenomena together make January 2025 a landmark month for celestial observation.
Where and When to See the 6 Planets
According to Starwalk, the planetary alignment will be visible almost everywhere during the evening hours. While Jan. 21, 2025, is the general date for optimal viewing, the best date and time for observing the alignment may vary depending on your location. Here are specific dates and the corresponding sky sectors where the planets will align most closely:
Abu Dhabi: Jan. 18, 169-degree sky sector
Hong Kong: Jan. 18, 172-degree sky sector
Tokyo: Jan. 21, 157-degree sky sector
New York: Jan. 22, 152-degree sky sector
Athens: Jan. 23, 155-degree sky sector
Tall buildings, mountains, or other obstructions could limit your view of the planets, so finding an open, unobstructed space is critical. For precise details on when and where to look based on your location, Starwalk suggests using the Sky Tonight app. The app allows users to select a specific date and time to view the alignment on a sky map, and its AR mode helps to integrate the celestial view with your local surroundings.
If you miss the planetary parade on Jan. 21, don’t worry! The alignment will extend for several days before and after the 21st, offering multiple opportunities to witness this rare event.
Viewing Tips
Venus and Jupiter will be the brightest planets to spot, making them ideal starting points. Venus will appear in the southwestern sky, setting early in the evening, while Jupiter will dominate the southeastern sky. For Saturn, Mars, Uranus, and Neptune:
Saturn: Near Venus in the southwestern sky but dimmer.
Mars: Look east for its distinct red hue near the Gemini constellation.
Uranus and Neptune: Binoculars or a telescope will be necessary. Uranus will appear near Jupiter, while Neptune will be closer to Venus and Saturn.
A Window into the Cosmos
Dean Regas, an astronomer, highlights in The Farmers' Almanac that planetary parades during winter months hold special allure due to the clear skies of the season. He notes, “Stars and planets shine brighter in the crisp winter air, offering unparalleled views.”
Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or simply curious about the cosmos, this alignment promises to be a highlight of the new year. As Hunter Miller summarized to NBC Chicago, “This is not just a rare occurrence; it’s a chance to connect with the universe and appreciate the celestial mechanics that govern our solar system.”
As the planets align, the universe reminds us of its intricate beauty—a harmony that continues to inspire wonder across the ages.