Mini planetary parade to light up skies tomorrow - everything you need to know
Mini planetary parade to light up skies tomorrow - everything you need to know
A mini planetary parade will see Jupiter, Mercury, Uranus, Mars, Neptune and Saturn align above the horizon
May 23 marks the moment that six planets will appear aligned (stock image)
(Image: Getty Images/Science Photo Library RF )
Astronomy enthusiasts are in for a celestial treat at dawn tomorrow, as a stunning mini planetary parade is set to grace our skies. The early hours of the morning will witness Jupiter, Mercury, Uranus, Mars, Neptune and Saturn aligning just above the horizon.
The prospects of catching Uranus with the naked eye might be slim, but it's anticipated that avid sky-gazers across Britain could capture glances of other planets, with some spotted even without the need for binoculars. Shedding light on this space show, Dr Shyam Balaji, an astroparticle physics and cosmology expert at King's College London, told the Mirror: "The planets will appear clustered along the ecliptic - the Sun's path across the sky.
"Though they won't form a straight line, they'll span a patch of sky roughly 70° wide, a striking sight with binoculars or even your naked eye - except for faint Uranus."
Planetary parades take place when major planets in the solar system appear aligned from our viewpoint on Earth. Normally, the planets follow their orbits around the sun within roughly the same ecliptic plane, yet instances when many can be seen at the same time are rare occurrences.
The upcoming spectacle (May 23) places all six planets above the horizon simultaneously, shortly before daybreak near 4 am. Nonetheless, according to Dr Balaji, the prime period for observation will likely extend from May 29 to June 2, when some planets will sit higher in the sky.
"The best chance to catch the parade is just before sunrise, during the early hours around 3.30 to 4.30 am BST, with the optimal window falling on Thursday, May 29, to Monday, June 2," he said.
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"Saturn and Mars will be the easiest to spot higher up in the southeastern sky, while Jupiter and Mercury will be low on the horizon, requiring a clear, unobstructed view to the east.
"Uranus may be too faint for the naked eye, but it's worth scanning the area with binoculars or a telescope if you have one. May 23 marks a moment when six planets (Jupiter, Mercury, Uranus, Mars, Neptune, Saturn) are technically all above the horizon at the same time just before dawn.
"However, Neptune and Uranus will not be visible without a telescope, Mercury will be extremely low and faint, the planets will also be widely spaced and not visually 'lined up'. Hence, it's not really a six-planet parade, most people will only be able to see three to four at best."
Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that stargazing is largely affected by weather and light pollution. As a result, Brits should check forecasts in advance and aim to sit in a location with an unobstructed view of the horizon, away from glaring city lights.
Where should I look?
Stargazers can benefit from apps like Stellarium or SkySafari for tailored tips based on their location. However, as a general guideline, Dr. Balaji shared the following recommendations:
The simplest way to differentiate between planets and stars is by observing their light. If it twinkles, it's likely a star, while planets generally emit a continued brightness, often in a slightly different shade.
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Dr Balaji added: "Find a clear eastern horizon (hilltops or open fields are ideal). Use apps like Stellarium or SkySafari to locate planets in real time. Check the weather and try multiple mornings if needed. Arrive early to let your eyes adjust to the dark."
You can also visit Starwalk's site for astronomical information and planet viewing tips.
Have you got a story to share? Get in touch at lauren.haughey@reachplc.com
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