Six planets to align in rare ‘planetary parade’ on June 3, 2024
A rare planetary alignment is about to occur, resulting in a breathtaking celestial spectacle that astronomy aficionados will not want to miss.
The best viewing period for this planetary alignment is on June 3, 2024, but the spectacle will be visible for several days before and after that date.
What is planetary alignment?
Planetary alignment is a phenomena in which planets in the solar system appear to line up in a straight line or close to it, as seen from Earth. This alignment can arise in a variety of ways.
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According to NASA, planetary alignment occurs when two or more planets approach close together in the sky to produce a conjunction known as ‘alignment’. The alignment is made by six planets: Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.
Because of their close proximity to the Sun, viewing these planets near the horizon just before sunrise may be difficult.
During this planetary alignment, Saturn will shine brightly in the eastern morning sky, appearing yellowish, with Mars appearing reddish below. The Moon will also appear in its crescent phase, adding to the cosmic view.
Best time to view the phenomenon
Jupiter and Mars will be visible around 20 minutes before sunrise, with Mercury less than 10 degrees above the eastern horizon. Uranus and Neptune, notorious for their faintness, will remain invisible to the human eye, while Venus will be too close to the Sun to observe.
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Unlike common perception, the planets will not seem larger during this alignment. The alignment is not a perfect straight line, but rather the result of the planets’ orbits being broadly in the same plane, with minor deviations from the Earth’s orbit known as the Ecliptic.
Where in India will it be visible?
Experts believe that if the sky are clear before daybreak, the planetary alignment can be viewed from all throughout India.
For those eager to watch this cosmic display, setting an alarm to catch a glimpse of the planetary parade before sunrise each day this week will provide an opportunity to appreciate the beauty and wonder of our solar system in action.
