Rare Planetary Alignment Offers Stunning Night Sky Views Through February

Six planets, including Venus at its brightest, align in a rare celestial event visible across the U.S. starting tonight.

The planetary alignment includes Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, Neptune, and Uranus, with Venus shining at its brightest due to its greatest elongation.
The alignment will be visible for several weeks, peaking in January and transitioning in late February as Mercury replaces Saturn in the lineup.
Venus and Saturn will appear closest on January 17-18, while a rare Mars occultation by the moon will occur on January 13, visible across the continental U.S.
Observers can see Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars with the naked eye, while Uranus and Neptune require telescopes for viewing.
The event features several conjunctions, including Venus and Neptune on February 1, offering unique opportunities for stargazing and photography.