21-05-2025
A Rare 'Parade of Planets' Is Happening This Week. How to See the 3-Planet Alignment
Rise and shine, there's a cosmic treat in store!
As the moon wanes after its last-quarter phase, the pre-dawn hours grow darker, setting the stage for a stunning planetary alignments don't happen every day, so if you're an early riser or looking for a reason to wake up before sunrise, this week's 3-planet alignment will be worth it. After all, when was the last time you caught three bright celestial bodies in such close proximity?
A mini parade of planets will align above the eastern horizon, offering stargazers their very own cosmic makes this event so special? In addition to the beauty and divine timing surrounding this rare event, it reminds us of the sacred planetary rhythms happening a pair of binoculars and set your alarm! Here's how, when and where to watch this week's 3-planet alignment.
This week, a beautiful lineup of Saturn, Venus and the moon will rise before the sun, and adorn the night three planets will be visible to the naked eye: Saturn up high, the moon just below and Venus glimmering brightly near the horizon. Saturn will be the dimmest of the trio, but still visible.
The best time to catch a glimpse of the planetary alignment is from May 20 to May 24. Read below for a detailed breakdown of the moon's stages for best viewing.
Tuesday, May 20: The moon will reach its last-quarter phase, rising at about midnight and setting just after noon.
Thursday, May 22: The crescent moon will appear just a few degrees from Saturn an hour or so before dawn, while Venus shines brightly lower in the sky.
Friday, May 23: The moon, now at a slimmer crescent, will sit close to Venus, while Saturn remains May 24: This is your last chance to catch a glimpse of the moon before it vanishes into the sun's glare for the new moon phase. Rising on the lower eastern horizon about an hour before sunrise, it will sit beside Venus. Together with Saturn, all three planets will appear in a line from top to bottom.
Between May 20 and May 24, Venus, Saturn and the moon will be visible to the naked eye when looking toward the eastern horizon.
With a pair of binoculars, far away from major light pollution, conditions will be just right for viewing. You could also catch a glimpse of 'Earthshine' on May 23, which is when the glow on the dark side of the moon is caused by the sunlight's reflection from the Earth's find the best viewing time for your location, Time and Date recommends using their Night Sky Tool. Be sure to select the correct date and look in the pre-dawn hours. Moreover, for the most accurate location-specific information, refer back to online planetariums such as Stellarium.
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