A rare planet parade will occur on 21 January, with six planets visible from London. Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn can be seen with the naked eye, while Uranus and Neptune require binoculars. The optimal viewing time is from sunset to 9 pm.
Attention star-gazers: next week offers a thrilling celestial spectacle as six planets will align in what’s referred to as a ‘planet parade’. This phenomenon involves four or more planets appearing in alignment, but witnessing six at once is a rare sight. On 21 January, look for Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn visible to the naked eye, with Uranus and Neptune joining them but only detectable through binoculars or a telescope.
To best view this event from London, head to an open area free from obstruction or bright lights between sunset and around 9 pm on 21 January. Stars typically twinkle, while planets shine steadily, so keep an eye out for brighter, non-twinkling points in the sky. Using a stargazing app can also greatly enhance your viewing experience by helping you identify the planets.
Astronomical events like planet parades draw attention because they provide a unique opportunity to observe multiple planets in alignment. This occurrence can inspire curiosity about the cosmos and enhance public interest in astronomy. Knowing when and where to look is essential for optimal visibility, especially in urban areas where light pollution can obstruct views of celestial bodies.
In summary, next week, sky-watchers in London can enjoy a spectacular display of six planets aligning. The best time to observe this rare planetary parade is from sunset until 9 pm on 21 January. With proper preparation and perhaps the aid of a stargazing app, viewing this cosmic event should be a memorable experience.
Original Source: secretldn.com