Five Different Planets Will Align In The Michigan Night Sky During An Incredibly Rare Display
Are you ready for an out-of-this-world experience? You don’t have to be a full-blown space fanatic to appreciate a unique celestial event, and there’s a rare planetary occurrence headed our way during the month of June. When you’re eager to add some naturally occurring magic to your summer, keep your eyes peeled for a view of this planet parade in Michigan.
Throughout the month of June, astronomy publication Sky & Telescope Magazine explains, a “planet parade” will be visible from Earth – and many Michiganders will surely head outside to catch a glimpse.
During this fascinating and rare event, all five of our solar system’s naked-eye planets (able to be viewed from Earth without advanced viewing equipment) will align in the southeastern sky. Talk about amazing.
That’s right: Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn will make simultaneous appearances along a plane known as the ecliptic, which marks a line of travel for all five planets.
You’ll want to time your viewing experience accordingly, as pre-dawn is the best period during which to catch a glimpse of the planet parade. In fact, Mercury is typically only visible for approximately 30 minutes pre-dawn.
Scientists from Sky & Telescope believe that June 24th will provide one of the best opportunities to look skyward, as Mercury will rise an hour before the sun and a crescent moon will add extra delight.
Unfortunately, cloud cover and inclement weather might take its toll on some Michiganders’ viewing efforts, but don’t let one cloudy morning stop you: this rare alignment should continue for much of the month.
One fascinating element of the planet parade is its deceptive impression that the planets are actually close together. In reality, millions of miles separate Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn from one another.
As you make plans for exciting summer adventures, keep some space open for a pre-dawn viewing party with loved ones. We can’t imagine a better way to combine scientific education with fascinating family fun.
For additional information about how to observe the planet parade in Michigan this June, check out a press release from Sky & Telescope Magazine. Have you and your loved ones been able to check out any previous celestial events in the Great Lakes State? Share your experiences with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another scientific adventure in Michigan by completing our nomination form.
Searching for another summer activity to enjoy? You’ll want to read about these beautiful lazy rivers in Michigan.
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