The night sky is always a sight to behold, with its vast expanse of stars, constellations, and even planets visible to the naked eye. On March 27, 2023, stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts alike will be able to witness a rare celestial event known as the ‘Parade of Planets’¹. This event will showcase five planets visible in the night sky, including Jupiter, Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Uranus.
What is the Parade of Planets?
The Parade of Planets is a term used to describe a rare alignment of multiple planets in the night sky. In this event, the planets appear in a relatively straight line, making them easier to spot with the naked eye. Jupiter, Mercury, and Uranus will be much easier to spot with a pair of binoculars, but it shouldn’t be impossible to find them all without them.
While it’s not uncommon to see two or three planets align in the night sky, it’s rare to see five planets visible at the same time. We were treated to a similar Parade of Planets last summer, with Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn all visible, but those planets won’t align again until 20401. This past December, however, had all seven planets visible in the night sky. So, if you’re an astronomy enthusiast or just enjoy stargazing, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
What will be visible on March 27?
As previously mentioned, five planets will be visible in the night sky during the Parade of Planets on March 27, as well as the star cluster Messier 35 (M35) and, of course, the moon. Venus will be the brightest of the planets, followed by Mars. Jupiter and Mercury will be visible low in the sky by the horizon, and Uranus will be visible a little above Venus. Mars will be visible as the highest in the sky, but all five of the planets should be visible right around sunset. Additionally, M35 will be visible a little higher and to the left of Mars. This constellation is part of the Gemini zodiac and appears as faint swirling stars around a red center.
Mark your Calendars!
The Parade of Planets is a rare celestial event that astronomy enthusiasts and stargazers won’t want to miss. On March 27, 2023, five planets, as well as a prominent star cluster, will be visible in the night sky in a straight line, making them easier to spot. You’ll need to find a clear view of the western horizon shortly after sunset, so make sure you’ve got a spot set up and watch. You don’t want to miss this rare opportunity to witness the Parade of Planets!
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Sources
- “5 planets could be visible in the night sky next week.” NPR. Joe Hernandez. March 23, 2023