On the night of January 21, four aligned planets (Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn) will appear in the sky alongside the Moon, creating an arrangement that many would call a “planetary alignment.”
Why do planets appear to align?
What appears to be a perfect alignment of planets is just a trick of perspective. The planets in our solar system orbit in a similar plane, known as the ecliptic. From our position on Earth, these celestial bodies appear to align, even though they are actually at enormous distances from each other. This common phenomenon allows us to observe an apparent organization that is always fascinating.
Where and when to observe them?
During the first hours after sunset, Venus and Saturn will be visible on the southwestern horizon , while Jupiter will shine brightly higher in the sky. Mars will appear to the east as the night progresses. In Argentina, for example, the best time to enjoy the event will be around 10:30 p.m., always from a clear place away from light pollution.
Observing this event does not require specialized equipment. Telescopes are unnecessary to capture the majesty of these planets; the naked eye and a clear horizon are sufficient .
Astronomy apps (such as Stellarium) can also be useful for identifying each planet and learning more about their trajectories. For those interested in exploring further afield, binoculars might also reveal Uranus and Neptune, although their faint brightness makes them more challenging to spot.
How to enjoy the aligned planets on January 21?
The Córdoba Astronomical Observatory has suggested that enthusiasts look for clear skies to enjoy the event , although it does not plan any special activities for this date. Its main recommendation is to take advantage of the moment to reconnect with the cosmos and the wonder of celestial events.
National Geographic has also published a detailed calendar of astronomical phenomena for 2025, highlighting events such as meteor showers, eclipses, and more planetary alignments. This resource is ideal for enthusiasts who want to plan their observations and make the most of the celestial spectacles of the year.
There is no doubt that these moments of connection with the universe broaden our perception of the immensity that surrounds us. The night of January 21 is shaping up to be a perfect opportunity to look up and marvel at what the sky has to offer.
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Source and internal photo: Córdoba Astronomical Observatory
Main photo: Shutterstock
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