The alignment of seven planets of the Solar System, considered an optical illusion, will be visible during the afternoon and night of February 28. Most can be observed with the naked eye, which will turn this event into an unmissable astronomical show.
This phenomenon has been visible since the last week of February at sunset. However, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) reported that it will reach its maximum point this Friday, when Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune will form a planetary alignment. This event occurs when celestial bodies are positioned on the same side of the sun.
Scientists detailed that this optical illusion will not be repeated until 2492, which makes this opportunity a unique event for humanity. ANDN Guatemala, the phenomenon can be seen after 6 pm, at the end of the sunset and start dusk.
How and where to see the planetary alignment?
The National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (Insivumeh) explained that the special thing about this event is that the seven planets will be simultaneously in the sky.
According to its calculations, the alignment will begin at dusk, when the planets Mercury, Saturn and Neptune can be observed to the west, although due to its proximity to the sun they will only be visible for a short period.
Subsequently, climbing in the west sky to east, Venus, Jupiter, Uranus and Mars will be, which will gradually hide on the horizon.
The Insivumeh also explained that all the planets, except Uranus and Neptune, can be seen with the naked eye. To observe these last two, it will be necessary to use telescopes or specialized equipment.
Alignment began in January 2025
The apparent planetary alignment, as detailed by the portal EFEbegan in January with four planets: Venus, Saturn, Jupiter and Mars.
In recent days, this “parade” has joined the tiny mercury, the smallest planet in the solar system and one of the most difficult to observe due to its proximity to the sun.
“Planetary alignment is not in a straight line”
Although this phenomenon is rare, planetary alignment is not as unusual as it seems. Several planets are aligned periodically next to the Sun within the imaginary line known as ecliptic. However, what makes this event special is the inclusion of Uranus and Neptune, as well as the possibility of observing more than four planets with the naked eye.
The Insivumeh explained that the so -called “planetary alignment” does not mean that the planets align perfectly with the sun or form a straight line from our perspective. Actually, the planets follow a curved trajectory in the sky, known as eclipticand what makes this event exceptional is that more planets will be visible than usual at the same time.
Event to see this optical phenomenon
The Guatemalan Association of Astronomy (AGA) will hold an observation event of this astronomical phenomenon with the aim of visualizing the seven celestial bodies with specialized equipment. The activity will take place this Friday, February 28 at the Miraflores Museum, in Zone 11 capital.