Gear up for 'Planet Parade'! (Photo: X/@inquisitivefeed)
Hyderabad: Stargazers are getting excited about an interesting astronomical event on June 3, when the planets Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune will appear to be in a straight line. Mercury will also be in alignment but due to the direct glare of the sun it might not be visible easily.
While some of the larger planets like Mars, Jupiter and Saturn can be seen easily, telescopes or high-functioning binoculars will be needed to see the smaller planets in the alignment, or 'parade.'
Dr Priya Shah Hasan, assistant professor, physics, of the Maulana Azad National Urdu University (Manuu), said about the event: "Planets move in their orbits at their own speed but there are events when they all appear to be moving in a straight line once in a while. Such events are not very rare and are often quite possible. It is an interesting event for astronomical enthusiasts."
Prof. Hasan said that the best spot to see this alignment in Hyderabad would be in very dark spaces, which she said, were quite rare within the city, thanks to the LED lights and hoardings, etc. "One may have to drive a little out of the city to see these planets. They will be visible just a few hours before the sunrise. Mercury might not be visible but it will be in alignment as well," she said.
The next such alignment will be on August 28. Even more interesting would be the alignment on February 28, 2025, where Venus will also be in line.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
Next Story
