Planetary alignment

The planetary alignment on January 25, 2025, will be a spectacular celestial event, with Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune appearing closely grouped in the night sky. Observers in Pakistan will have an excellent opportunity to witness this alignment under favorable conditions.

Details of the Planetary Alignment

• Planets Visible:
  • Venus: Brightest and visible shortly after sunset.
  • Mars: Appears red and distinct.
  • Jupiter: Bright and easily visible.
  • Saturn: Fainter but visible.
  • Uranus & Neptune: Require binoculars or a telescope due to their faintness.
• Type of Alignment: While the planets won’t form a perfect straight line, they will appear closely grouped within a specific region of the sky, offering a visually stunning “planetary parade.”

Best Viewing Advice for Pakistan

1. Viewing Time:
   • The best time is shortly after sunset (around 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM local time).
   • Look towards the western horizon, where the planets will appear low in the sky.
2. Optimal Locations in Pakistan:
   • Northern Regions:
     • Skardu, Hunza, or Swat (clear, dark skies and minimal light pollution).
   • Desert Areas:
     • Cholistan and Thar Desert (wide open skies with minimal obstructions).
   • Rural Areas: Any location away from city lights.
3. Weather Conditions:
   • Check for clear skies beforehand. Clouds or smog in urban areas can obstruct the view.
   • Ideal viewing conditions typically occur in cooler, drier months, which is favorable in January.
4. Equipment Needed:
   • Naked Eye: Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn can be seen without assistance.
   • Binoculars/Telescope: Use these to spot Uranus and Neptune.
   • Use a smartphone app like SkySafari, Stellarium, or Google Sky Map for precise tracking.
5. Comfort & Safety:
   • Bring warm clothing, as January nights can be cold in many parts of Pakistan.
   • Use a reclining chair or blanket for comfortable skywatching.

Tips for Photography

• Use a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a tripod for stable shots.
• Set your camera to a low ISO (100–400), a wide aperture (f/2.8–f/4), and an exposure time of 10–20 seconds to capture the planets and stars.

Why This Event is Special

• It provides a chance to see multiple planets in one part of the sky, a treat for astronomers and stargazers alike.
• Alignments like this inspire curiosity about our solar system and offer an opportunity to learn about the planets’ relative positions.