6 planets to align in January’s cosmic spectacle

ISLAMABAD: In a breathtaking celestial event, six planets — Venus, Jupiter, Mars, Saturn, Neptune and Uranus — are likely to grace the night sky at the end of January, according to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco).

In a statement, a Suparco spokesperson said people will be able to witness the “spectacular planetary parade” next week. Venus, Jupiter, Mars, and Saturn would be visible to the naked eye, the spokesperson said, adding that Neptune and Uranus, however, can be seen using a telescope. In another event, the official said that a “rare seven-planet parade” will begin in late February. The planets will appear in a straight line from Earth’s perspective, creating a stunning view, the spokesperson added.

“Though millions of miles apart, the planets seem to march together across the heavens,” the Suparco official added.

On the other hand, social media is flooded with posts and videos claiming that the upcoming planetary alignment on January 25 happens “once in 396 billion years”. However, planetary alignments are not something out of the ordinary, nor are they irregular or a weird phenomenon; but are indeed a spectacular sight.