Gulf residents are in for a cosmic treat on the night of January 25, 2025 as four planets (Saturn, Jupiter, Venus, and Mars) will align for an ultra-rare celestial display in the night’s sky. And if they’re lucky, they might even catch a glimpse of Uranus and Neptune.
Known as a ‘planet parade’, this lining up of the Solar System’s planets is a spectacular event that offers a rare opportunity to see the planets appear in close proximity, providing a stunning visual experience.
The planets, each on their own orbital path, will seem to come together in the night sky from the perspective of those on Earth. This optical illusion happens when planets align in a way that makes them look as though they are neighbours. It’s a reminder of the vast universe we are a part of and a glimpse into the wonderment of celestial happenings.
For UAE residents keen on making the most of the event, the Dubai Astronomy Group (DAG) will be hosting a viewing event at Al Qudra Desert on January 25. The event, which runs from 6 PM to 10 PM, is ticketed, and prices start at Dh100 for members, Dh120 for children, and Dh150 for adults. It promises to be an informative night with sessions on identifying constellations and telescopic views of the line-up.
While events like these are not uncommon worldwide, the specific alignment on January 25 appears uniquely over the Gulf skies this time, adding a special local touch to the global stargazing adventure. People from the region and beyond might find themselves looking to the skies not only for awe but also for inspiration.