With the aim of creating interest in science among the public, especially the youth and students of the state, the then Chief Minister of Gujarat and the current Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, had started a separate Science and Technology Department in the state. Today, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the state’s Science and Technology Department is continuously working to instill a scientific attitude among the youth and students, as well as to inform the common people of the state about important scientific events.
One such important and rare astronomical event will occur in the night sky of Gujarat on January 24 and 25, 2025, when five of the eight planets orbiting the Sun will align in the same area, i.e. a planetary parade will be held. To witness this amazing event and to bring this astronomical phenomenon to the people of the state, a series of public observation programs have been organized by the Gujarat Council on Science and Technology (GUJCOST), operating under the Department of Science and Technology of Gujarat, in collaboration with Gujarat Science City, Regional Science Centers (RSCs) and Community Science Centers (CSCs) across the state.
Planetary Parade and its Scientific Importance
The planetary parade is held when multiple planets align in the same region of the sky, which is visible from the Earth. In the planetary parade to be held on January 24-25, these five planets – Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn – will align in a beautiful celestial arc, creating a picturesque scene in the sky. This alignment is a visual phenomenon created by the relative positions of the planets in their orbits around the Sun.
Such planetary alignments in space are of great educational and scientific importance. These events provide a unique opportunity to observe and learn about the motion of the planets, the ecliptic plane and the vastness of our solar system. Such events encourage the public to take an interest in astronomy and stimulate scientific curiosity among students and sky enthusiasts.
The parade of planets is a reflection of the wonders of our universe. The aim of GUJCOST behind organizing such observation programs is to arouse curiosity among the youth and the general public, so as to increase their understanding of celestial mechanics and the universe.
Programs to be held across Gujarat
GUJCOST has made extensive arrangements so that people from all walks of life can enjoy this astronomical event. The following programs have been organized for this:
- Gujarat Science City, Ahmedabad: Live telescopic observations, expert talks
- Regional Science Centers (Bhavnagar, Bhuj, Patan and Rajkot): Guided night sky observation sessions, interactive astronomy workshops and special exhibitions.
- Community Science Centers: Hands-on activities and exhibitions to explain the science behind planetary motion and celestial alignment
These programs are designed to develop an understanding of the scientific principles behind the planetary parade among students, teachers and the general public, while simultaneously developing a sense of curiosity about the wonders of our universe.
Tips for observing astronomical phenomena
1. Time: If the weather is favorable, the best time to see the parade of planets is between 7:00 and 10:00 pm on both nights.
2. Location: Choose a place with clear and dark skies away from the city for the best view.
3. Binoculars/Telescope: Although the planets can be seen with the naked eye, the experience can be enhanced with the help of binoculars or a telescope to see Jupiter’s moons and Saturn’s rings.
4. Direction: Look towards the western horizon after sunset for Mercury and Venus, while Mars, Jupiter and Saturn will be visible higher up.
5. Sky Apps: Use mobile astronomy apps to learn about the planets and their positions.
This is a priceless opportunity to witness a magnificent astronomical event and connect with the universe. GUJCOST invites everyone to participate in observation programs and explore the wonders of the solar system.
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