ORLANDO, Fla. – Ever wondered what a planetary alignment is? It’s when planets line up on the same side of the Sun around the same time, and this January, you’ll get a chance to see it for yourself!
Six planets — Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Venus, and Saturn — will align in the evening sky just after sunset.
Although it can be hard to see them in winter, four of these planets — Mars, Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn — can be spotted with the naked eye. For a better view of Neptune and Uranus, you’ll need a telescope.
Here’s what to look for:
- Venus (the “Evening Star”)
- Jupiter (Very bright) will be higher up in the sky in Taurus, surrounded by cool star clusters.
- Mars (bright reddish) will be low on the eastern horizon in the constellation Gemini.
- Saturn (yellowish) will be closer to the western horizon, shining brightly in Aquarius.
- Uranus will be faint, but visible with a good telescope in Aries near Taurus.
- Neptune will be even fainter, so binoculars are a must, located in Pisces.
The planets will actually align on multiple dates — Jan. 25, 26, 27 and 31. So don’t stress if you miss one night!
Want the best view? Start watching about an hour before sunrise. The planets will line up beautifully.
This rare event is worth catching! And don’t forget, another alignment will happen on Feb. 28, 2025 — it’s set to be even more epic!
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: