This February 28 will occur a singular planetary alignment, since seven planets can be observed as if they were in an imaginary line.
NASA indicates that the planets that can be seen are Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Venus and Saturn. To do this, it will be necessary to have the right equipment and with climate conditions conducive to enjoy the event in the best possible way.
According to estimates by the National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (Insivumeh), The alignment planned for this day could start at dusk. However, due to their proximity to the sun, the planets will be visible only for a short period.
Throughout the year, other planetary alignments could occur, although of less magnitude. Next, we explain why this phenomenon happens and how often it is possible to visualize it.
Why does a planetary alignment occur?
First, NASA clarifies that there are two types of planetary alignments. The first occurs because the planets orbit around the sun and maintain the trajectory that determines the gravitational force of this star. This type of alignment is given in events called planetary oppositions and conjunctionsaccording to NASA.
On the other hand, the scientific entity indicates that the second class of planetary alignment consists of a “apparent alignment in the sky of a planet with other planets, with the moon or with bright stars”
In this regard, it is important to understand that the planets are always appreciated in a line or arc through the sky. “This phenomenon happens because the planets orbit around the sun in a plane that is considered relatively horizontal and has a disk shape,” NASA mentions.
From our planet, we observe the interior of that plane in the Solar System, and the route of the planets is displayed as if they were on a racing track and we were the runners. In this way, the album is perceived as a line, which is known as ecliptic. Therefore, the planets can be seen at the same time with the naked eye.
How often does a planetary alignment happen?
There is no certain figure that explains the frequency with which a planetary alignment occurs. However, An alignment like the one that will happen on February 28, 2025 will not be repeated until 2492.
Nevertheless, There will be other types of lineups in the coming years. Next, we share the closest dates in which events of a similar nature can be observed:
- August 11, 2025: On this date another planetary alignment of Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune and Saturn could be visualized.
- October 2028: Five planets could be visible at the same time before dawn. The exact date is unknown, although it is estimated that the event will occur at the end of that month.
- February 2034: Five planets will be observed simultaneously after sunset, although some could be seen with difficulty.