6 planets of the solar system line up straight with the sun today, just before sunrise.
The occasion, called the Planet Parade, draws planets much closer to each other.
With predicted weather in Gauteng, of winds and hail, and wet weather for most Provinces, there is concern South Africans might miss this rare opportunity to see a reflection of 6 planets line up with the sun just before sunrise.
According to the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), the 6 planets joining the parade are Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune.
Dr Anton Binneman, Acting Head of Communications and Stakeholder Relations at SARAO says unfortunately, the clouds will make it impossible to see the parade of the planets.
“You will probably have to get up at 12 tonight to get a glimpse of it. Saturn will rise at 00:23, and Jupiter only at 05:57. I guess it’s all about timing. But this one is probably going to pass us.” said Binneman.
If you miss this opportunity, the next one is on the 28th of August 2024.
Timetable above : SARAO
More information:
https://www.timeanddate.com/astronomy/night/south-africa/Johannesburg.
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