Grab your binoculars and set the alarm.
For the first time in 18 years, five planets (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn) will be aligned sequentially and visible at dawn throughout this month.
Those looking from the continental United States should be able to watch them, as long as they get up early enough, Diana Hannikainen, The sky and telescopes The observer editor told NPR.
The alignment of five planets is not “incredibly rare,” Hannikainen said. These planets were last aligned in sequential order in 2004, and are expected to return in 2040.
“But it’s rare enough that if we get a chance to go out in the morning and check it out, it’s worth it,” Hannikainen said.
As June progresses, Mercury will be easier to see, he said. The sighting is expected to be especially special on June 24th. On that day, spectators should also be able to see the waning moon waning between Venus and Mars.
/ Illustration of the sky and the telescope
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Illustration of the sky and the telescope
An illustration of the sight of June 24, when a crescent moon will be visible between Venus and Mars.
If you want to take a look, make sure you are in your sights about 30 minutes before sunrise, says Hannikainen. For most, an ideal place should have a clear view of the horizon to the east. And binoculars are key, he adds.
“Don’t be disappointed if you don’t take Mercury from the start,” he says. “Some people may be able to catch the five planets at the beginning of the month, but don’t be too disappointed. Four planets are already a beautiful, beautiful sight.”
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