Beginning January 21, 2023, sky enthusiasts will have the chance to witness a remarkable astronomical event as six planets—Mars, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune—align in the night sky.
This alignment, often called a "planetary parade," will be visible to the naked eye for Mars, Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn. However, those looking to catch a glimpse of Uranus and Neptune will need a telescope. The prime time to view this spectacle is just after sunset, and it will continue through the final week of February.
By the end of February, Mercury will also make a brief appearance in the alignment, bringing the total number of visible planets to seven.
While spotting all seven planets at once may be difficult—given that Saturn, Mercury, and Neptune will be situated close to the horizon during sunset—observers are encouraged to find dark, clear locations away from city lights for the best viewing experience.
Jennifer Millard, an astronomy specialist, shared her thoughts on witnessing such celestial displays. "The light you see has traveled millions or even billions of miles to reach your eyes," she noted, emphasizing the wonder of the experience.
This planetary alignment presents a rare opportunity for stargazers to connect with the vast cosmos. Keep in mind, though, that Venus, Saturn, and Neptune are anticipated to fade from the evening sky by early March.