This accumulation of ideal configurations is not entirely due to chance, the amateur astronomer explains. “The phenomenon, entirely predictable and mechanical, is more of the order of a stroke of luck.”
Venusfor example, which is also called the Shepherd’s Star, is a planet quite close to the sun which we are used to seeing either in the evening or early in the morning. A little further than the earth, Saturn et Jupiter are visible only when they pass between the Earth and the sun, a phenomenon that occurs approximately every 13 months. The planet Marslocated just behind the earth in the solar system, is placed in the same configuration every 15 months. This Tuesday, January 21, these different occurrences will occur at the same time.
Astronomy, a popular passion that attracts the Grapfontaine Observatory
Rémy Mas emphasizes that the six observable planets will not all be visible in the same way. “Mars, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn, the four brightest planets, will be completely visible to the naked eye. Uranus and Neptune will require observation equipment such as a telescope.”
As soon as night falls
To observe this rare phenomenon, you will have to be quite quick. From sunset, scheduled for 17h16 in Belgium this Tuesday, January 21, identify the ecliptic, the plane in which the Earth’s orbit around the Sun takes place. “This is the area currently crossed by the famous signs of the zodiac,” indicates the astronomer. It is in this area that the planets will be visible. To find your way in the sky, Rémy Mas recommends downloading mobile applications that allow you to “scan the sky” depending on the direction in which the device is oriented, for example “Stellarium” or “Skysafari”.
-The planets Venus and Jupiter, much brighter than the stars, are easily recognizable in the sky. Mars, although less luminous, stands out thanks to its orange or even “brick” surface. Generally speaking, it is possible to differentiate planets from stars because unlike the latter, planets do not twinkle.
Due to the rotation of the Earth on itself, the planets will then move gently towards the west where they will set. Venus and Saturn first, around 20h30 and Mars bringing up the rear at the very end of the night.
To make the moment even more magical, get away from the light pollution of cities and don’t forget to dress warmly.
Many amateur clubs exist in Wallonia and organize group observation sessions. They are listed on the website of the French-speaking Federation of Amateur Astronomers of Belgium.
