A magical planetary alignment will occur this month — how, where and when to see it happen

The Month’s Must-See Cosmic Event: A Six-Pack of Planets Aligning in the Night Sky

This month, stargazers are in for a treat as six planets—Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune—line up in a rare alignment that will illuminate the night sky. This celestial spectacle will be visible from now until mid-February, offering a unique opportunity to witness these luminaries converge in a single region of the sky. While the planets won’t be in a precise straight line in space, their close grouping on one side of the Sun creates an optical illusion that makes for a breathtaking sight. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a casual sky-watcher, this event is a must-see for anyone captivated by the wonders of the cosmos.

What is a Planetary Alignment?

A planetary alignment occurs when more than two planets appear to line up in the sky from our vantage point on Earth. Depending on the number of planets involved, such alignments are categorized as “mini,” “small,” or “large.” For instance, three planets make a mini alignment, four make a small one, and five or more qualify as a large alignment. On extremely rare occasions, when all eight planets (plus Pluto, if you count the dwarf planet) align, it’s referred to as a great or full planetary alignment. However, this doesn’t mean the planets are all in a straight line in space—they are simply clustered closely on one side of the Sun.

This month’s six-planet alignment is often described as a “planetary parade,” a term that captures the whimsy and beauty of the event, even though it’s not an official astronomical term. The last time a similar alignment occurred was in June 2022, and according to NASA, such events aren’t rare but also don’t happen every year. This month’s alignment is particularly special, as it brings together a diverse group of planets, from the bright and easily visible Venus and Jupiter to the more distant Uranus and Neptune.

When and Where to Catch the Planetary Parade

The best time to witness the planetary alignment is shortly after sunset, from around 9 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. local time. Saturn and Venus will be visible in the southwest, while Mars will appear in the east, and Jupiter will shine brightly overhead. The alignment will be visible every night, weather permitting, from now until mid-February, but there are two standout dates to mark on your calendar.

On January 21, Jupiter and Venus will be at their brightest as they ascend higher in the sky, and the moon will remain below the horizon until after midnight, ensuring a darker sky for stargazing. This will provide an ideal opportunity to observe the planets clearly, even in areas with some light pollution. Then, on February 1, Venus and a crescent moon will appear close together in the southwest, putting on a stunning display for several hours before dipping below the western horizon.

As with any stargazing event, the key to maximizing your viewing experience is to find a location with minimal light pollution. Dark sky communities offer the best conditions, but even in urban areas, the brightness of the planets ensures that you’ll still be able to see the show. If you’re using a phone or camera, allow a few seconds for your eyes to adjust to the darkness, and consider using astronomy apps like Starwalk to help locate the planets.

A Sweeping Vista for the Naked Eye (and Beyond)

While Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn will be easily visible to the naked eye, Uranus and Neptune will require a telescope or high-powered binoculars to spot. Mars, in particular, will stand out this month as it makes its closest approach to Earth in two years. The red planet will appear brighter, larger, and more vivid, adding a dramatic flair to the alignment.

The excitement doesn’t stop there—next month, on February 28, 2025, Mercury will join the lineup, bringing the total number of visible planets to seven. This adds an extra layer of significance to the event, making it a rare and memorable experience for sky enthusiasts.

The Astrological Significance of This Month’s Alignment

For those interested in astrology, this month’s planetary alignment holds a special significance. Venus, Saturn, and Neptune will be in Pisces, a water sign associated with creativity, intuition, and emotional depth. Mars, meanwhile, will be retrograde in Cancer, a sign linked to family, home, and emotional bonding. Jupiter will be in Gemini, a sign of communication, curiosity, and intellectual exploration. Uranus, the planet of innovation and change, will be in Taurus, a sign grounded in stability and material security.

When Mercury joins the alignment in February, it will be in Aquarius, a sign associated with vision, innovation, and community. Astrologically, this alignment is believed to bring a mix of energies, influencing everything from personal relationships to collective societal shifts. For those who follow astrology, this event offers a unique opportunity to reflect on how the planets’ positions might be shaping their lives.

Your Guide to the Stars and Beyond

If you’re eager to dive deeper into the astrological implications of this month’s alignment, astrologer Reda Wigle offers insightful and irreverent interpretations of planetary configurations. Her horoscopes blend history, poetry, pop culture, and personal experience, providing a fresh take on how the stars might be influencing your life. To learn more or book a reading, visit her website and explore the fascinating world of astrology.

This month’s planetary alignment is more than just a beautiful sight—it’s a chance to connect with the vastness of the universe and reflect on our place within it. So grab your binoculars, find a dark spot, and get ready to witness one of the most talked-about cosmic events of the year. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the night sky, this is an experience you won’t want to miss. Get it while you can, because the next opportunity might not come around for years to come!