If planets, the outer universe, and cosmic phenomena are your area of interest, then you would be excited to know that a rare planetary parade is set to grace the skies in India soon! What’s interesting about this celestial alignment is that most of the planets will be visible to the naked eye. Scroll on to learn more about the planetary parade, when it will be visible in India, and where you can witness it.
What Is A Planetary Parade?
2025 is going to be a superb year for skygazers! The year is starting with a bang for them as a planetary parade is all set to grace the skies in January. A planetary parade occurs when several of the solar system’s planets are visible in the night sky at the same time.
While this astronomical lineup is fairly common and happens often, this year is special because six planets will be visible this time around. People will be able to see Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune, and Uranus together in the sky.
According to the Deccan Herald, people will be able to witness Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn to the naked eye. The report mentioned that during the planetary parade, Venus will appear the brightest and Mars will look like a bright red dot. Furthermore, Saturn will be observed as a faint dot, and Jupiter as a white dot in the sky. To witness Neptune and Uranus, one would need a telescope.
When Will It Be Visible In India?
According to the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, the planetary parade is already at its peak. In India, it will remain visible until February 13. However, the best views are expected until January 21. The best time to watch it is from 7:30 PM, shortly after sunset.
Contrary to many online claims, these planets will not align in a perfect straight line. While talking to Deccan Herald, Chrisphin Karthick, a scientist at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, mentioned that the planets will align along the ecliptic plane.
Best Places To Witness This Rare Celestial Event
The planetary parade will be seen across India. The ideal location, however, should be free from pollution and tall buildings. Also, clear weather is essential to enjoy this rare alignment fully. So, if you wish to see the parade in its true element, then here are a few spots in India to enjoy this breathtaking cosmic alignment –
1. Pangong Lake, Ladakh
2. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
3. Nubra Valley, Ladakh
4. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand
5. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
6. Coorg, Karnataka
7. Munnar, Kerala
8. Neil Island, Andaman and Nicobar
9. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
10. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
So, are you excited to witness this rare planetary parade? Let us know in the comments.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (representative image)
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