If you look up shortly after sunset this week, you can see a special spectacle. As many as six planets are visible at the same time in the evening sky. The so-called planet parade is also easy to follow above Drenthe, although according to astronomers it is a matter of timing and a bit of luck with the weather.
This concerns Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune. Only Mars is missing, which is currently on the other side of the sun. Four planets can be seen with the naked eye, while two others require binoculars or a small telescope. Tonight and Saturday seem to be the best days to watch, as Mercury is at its most favorable and the weather forecast is clear.
A planetary parade sounds exceptional, but such an alignment is more common. A similar conjunction was also seen last January. Yet it remains special to be able to spot multiple planets at a glance.
According to astronomer Theo Jurriëns, this planet parade is especially special because so many planets are visible at the same time, but it is not easy to spot: “Two of the six planets cannot be seen without aid and the moment at which you have to look is quite precise. If you go out too late, you will especially miss Mercury, which sets quickly.”
The best time is about half an hour after sunset, around 6:15 PM. A clear view of the western horizon is essential. Trees, houses or light mist can quickly obscure Mercury and Saturn from view. Mercury remains close to the sun and disappears below the horizon within an hour.
Venus and Jupiter are the easiest to recognize. Venus is the brightest object in the sky after the moon and is immediately noticeable. Jupiter is higher and remains visible most of the night. Saturn is a bit more subtle, but still visible with the naked eye.
Uranus and Neptune require binoculars or a small telescope. If you are going to look with binoculars or a telescope, wait until the sun has completely set. Otherwise you risk damaging your eye.
