Despite some recent online chatter, a spectacular “planetary parade” on June 3 may not be visible to the naked eye, but there are still celestial wonders to enjoy. While the alignment of six planets in our solar system—Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune—is indeed occurring, only two will be easily visible from Earth.
Throughout May, Mars and Saturn have been shining brightly in the pre-dawn sky, gradually climbing higher each morning. On June 3, these two planets will be joined by a beautiful crescent moon, creating a stunning sight for early risers.
While Mercury, Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune may be too faint to see due to the sun’s glare or their distance, you can enhance your viewing experience with a pair of binoculars or a small telescope. This will allow you to appreciate the intricate dance of our solar system’s celestial bodies.
For those interested in tracking this alignment or other astronomical events, tools like Time and Date, Stellarium, and the Sky Tonight app provide excellent guidance on when and where to look. They offer real-time data and visualizations to help you make the most of your stargazing experience.
So, set your alarm clocks early on June 3 and enjoy the serene beauty of the night sky. Even if the full planetary parade isn’t visible, the alignment of Mars, Saturn, and the moon promises a memorable spectacle.
Happy stargazing—enjoy the cosmic show!