This month, four luminous planets can be observed collectively in the night sky, an event that NASA refers to as a “planetary parade,” which is essential for astronomy enthusiasts.
In January, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn will each feature prominently in the night sky (Mars will be at its nearest to Earth during this weekend), so if you’re curious about the more prominent bright “stars” currently visible, they may actually be planets.
“In January, you have the chance to behold four bright planets in an expansive view,” stated Preston Dyches from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in a video guide about the January night sky. “These opportunities to view multiple planets aren’t exceptionally rare, but they don’t occur annually, thus making it worthwhile to observe.”
This NASA sky chart illustrates the positioning of Saturn and Venus in the early evening in the southwest sky for January 2025, while Jupiter shines overhead throughout the night. Meanwhile, Mars can be observed in the eastern sky later in the evening. (Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech)
