Five Different Planets Will Align In The Rhode Island Night Sky During An Incredibly Rare Display
The Rhode Island night sky is absolutely magical, isn’t it? Whether we’re viewing celebratory fireworks or stargazing, we can find plenty of opportunities to turn our eyes to the sky after the sun goes down. Now you have another reason to head outdoors and gaze up this month. The five so-called naked-eye planets will align throughout June in a spectacular and rare celestial event.
Find a quiet spot outdoors in the early morning hours – a half an hour before the sunrise – throughout June to witness the five naked-eye planets as they glow in a line in the sky.
For the first time since 2004, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn will align. The planets all travel on the same “row” of the solar system, which is called the ecliptic.
While the planets will be visible throughout June, they’ll get clearer as the month wears on. Experts predict that the clarity will peak on June 24 when Mercury will be visible an hour before the sunrise.
Once the sun begins to awaken, it overshadows Mercury.
Don’t be surprised if it looks as though the planets are close by. However, that’s just an optical illusion. In reality, each of the planets is millions of miles from the others.
Because they are naked-eye planets, you won’t need binoculars or a telescope to view this celestial event. However, if you want a closer look, you can certainly use them.
To increase your chances of seeing the planets align, find a quiet spot that’s as free of light pollution as possible. A park, the beach, or even your backyard might be the perfect spot for a bit of stargazing.
Do you have a favorite place to admire the Rhode Island night sky? Let us know in the comments! If you’ve never gone stargazing at Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge in Charlestown, you’re in for a real treat!
Address: Rhode Island, USA
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