As the Sun Sets Tonight, Witness a Rare Celestial Event!

The sun is setting over the Mojave Desert, and with it comes an extraordinary opportunity: a rare planetary alignment! Tonight, January 21, 2025, six planets—Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Saturn, and Venus—will appear in a stunning arc across the night sky, stretching from east to west. This rare “parade of planets” is a breathtaking reminder of the wonders of our solar system, and it’s happening right now!

 

How to See the Planetary Alignment

When to Watch: The best time to view the alignment is right after sunset, from now until around 6:30 PM. Venus and Saturn will hover low on the western horizon tonight, so head outside as soon as possible to catch them before they set. While the alignment will be most precise tonight, portions of it—like Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn—will still be visible over the next few evenings, though Venus and Mercury may be harder to spot as the week progresses.

Where to Watch: Twentynine Palms and Joshua Tree National Park offer some of the darkest skies in Southern California. Ideal locations include Sky’s The Limit Observatory or wide-open areas within Joshua Tree National Park, such as Cap Rock or Hidden Valley.

What to Bring: While you can spot Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Venus with the naked eye, Uranus and Neptune will require a good pair of high-powered binoculars or a backyard telescope. Dress warmly, bring a blanket or chair, and enjoy a cozy evening under the stars.

 

A Planet-by-Planet Guide

Mars
Look toward the east, directly under the constellation Gemini. Mars is currently at opposition, meaning Earth is directly between it and the Sun, making the Red Planet appear its biggest and brightest. Mars will be visible all night and is easily seen with the naked eye. Bonus Tip: Through a telescope, you can spot Mars’ north polar ice cap and the Vallis Marineris, the largest canyon in the solar system.

Jupiter
Jupiter will be to the west of Mars, located in the constellation Taurus. This gas giant is easily visible to the naked eye, but binoculars or a telescope will reveal its cloud bands and possibly its moons. If conditions are perfect, a telescope may even show you Jupiter’s Great Red Spot, an anticyclone larger than Earth. Jupiter will be visible until around 3 to 5 AM.

Uranus
Uranus will be about 50 degrees to the west of Jupiter, near the Pleiades star cluster. It’s too dim to see with the naked eye, but binoculars or a telescope will reveal its pale blue hue. Viewing tip: Try to spot Uranus before the moon rises at around midnight, as moonlight will make it harder to see.

Neptune
Neptune will be positioned above the constellation Aquarius, about 9 degrees above and slightly to the east of Venus. Like Uranus, Neptune is only visible through binoculars or a telescope and will appear as a faint, star-like object.

Venus and Saturn
Venus and Saturn will be low on the western horizon. Venus, the second-brightest object in the night sky after the moon, will dominate this section of the alignment. Saturn will appear nearby, just a few degrees apart. Binoculars or a telescope will reveal Saturn’s iconic rings and possibly some of its moons. Venus, while bright, does not reveal surface details due to its thick cloud cover.

 

A Rare and Stunning Display

This planetary parade is a spectacular and rare event, happening only once every few years. The alignment stretches across the sky, with the brightest planets—Venus, Jupiter, and Mars—providing an awe-inspiring display even for casual stargazers. Uranus and Neptune add a layer of intrigue for those equipped with binoculars or a telescope.

 

A Unique Stargazing Opportunity in Twentynine Palms

Twentynine Palms is the perfect place to experience this cosmic phenomenon. With its famously dark skies and proximity to Joshua Tree National Park, the city offers some of the best stargazing conditions in the region. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply someone who loves the night sky, tonight’s planetary alignment offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to connect with the cosmos. So bundle up, grab your gear, and head outside to enjoy this unforgettable celestial show. 🌌