Once-in-100-years Rare Planetary Alignment to Grace Indian Skies: How to Watch the Spectacle

January 25, 2025, is set to be a historic day for stargazers in India, as the night sky will host a rare celestial event – a planetary parade featuring all seven planets of the solar system, excluding Earth. While the alignment isn’t restricted to this date, it offers an exciting peak of visibility with Mercury joining the arc briefly.

Throughout January, six planets – Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune – can be observed forming a sweeping arc in the evening sky. This phenomenon, popularly termed a “planetary parade,” is an optical illusion caused by the planets aligning along Earth’s ecliptic plane. Despite their vast separations in space, they appear clustered together when viewed from Earth.

Understanding the Planetary Parade

Though the term “planetary parade” evokes an image of planets lining up in a straight line, NASA clarifies that this is a perspective-based phenomenon. The alignment appears striking from Earth but doesn’t reflect the actual three-dimensional layout of our solar system.

Such events are not exceedingly rare but remain a treat for astronomy enthusiasts. This year, the inclusion of Neptune and Uranus in the arc, visible only through telescopes, adds a layer of challenge and intrigue to the experience.

Best Time and Locations to Watch in India

The best time to observe the planetary alignment is around 8:30 PM on January 21, shortly after sunset. The alignment will remain visible for about four weeks, providing plenty of opportunities for enthusiasts.

For an optimal experience:

Head to rural areas or remote spots with minimal light pollution.

Choose locations with an unobstructed view of the western horizon. National parks, open fields, or coastal areas are ideal.

Planets like Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn can be seen with the naked eye. To spot Uranus and Neptune, a telescope is essential. Venus and Saturn will dominate the southwest shortly after sunset, with Jupiter overhead and Mars glowing brightly in the east.

A Brief Appearance by Mercury

On January 25, Mercury joins the celestial lineup for a few days, completing the planetary parade. However, its proximity to the Sun and small size make it challenging to spot. With some effort and the right conditions, dedicated stargazers might catch a glimpse.

Why This Event is Special

This alignment offers a rare chance to see six planets with the naked eye, along with the challenge of spotting Mercury, Neptune, and Uranus through telescopes. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a curious observer, it’s a perfect opportunity to connect with the wonders of the universe.

So, gather your telescopes, find a dark and quiet spot, and let the celestial parade inspire awe and wonder.