In recent news, a unique celestial event is about to grace our skies. Five planets – Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Uranus will align in what is commonly referred to as a planetary parade or alignment. The last occurrence of this kind dates back to 2004, making the upcoming alignment highly anticipated by astronomy enthusiasts worldwide.
This astral parade will be visible to the naked eye, depending on certain conditions. The best time to witness this fascinating spectacle falls on March 28th, 2023, just after the sun sets below the horizon.
Venus will take center stage as the most visible planet, followed closely by Mars with its distinctive orange hue. Uranus, despite being in close proximity to Venus, will require specialized equipment for detection due to its relatively faint appearance. Lastly, Mercury and Jupiter will form the base of this alignment, appearing at the bottom of the celestial formation.
Variables Impacting Planet Observability
Planet visibility during this alignment isn’t guaranteed for all spectators. Experts attribute this to several factors including light pollution and the observer’s location. Light pollution, in particular, poses a significant challenge, as it disrupts the natural darkness that allows celestial bodies to shine through.
Memory Lane: Previous Planetary Alignments
While the upcoming alignment is exciting, it’s not an unprecedented event. In June 2022, a similar alignment took place involving five planets – namely Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. Astronomers predict that such a lineup won’t be seen again until the year 2040, further underlining the unique nature of these celestial spectacles.
The Issue of Light Pollution
Light pollution is essentially the overuse of artificial light that ends up brightening the night sky more than necessary. It has a dual effect of disrupting both the observability of celestial bodies and the natural rhythm of our environment.
Impacts Beyond the Sky: Environmental Disruption
The effects of light pollution reach far beyond the vaults of the night sky, penetrating deep into our natural ecosystems. It tends to interfere with the instinctive behaviors and migratory patterns of animals, birds, and insects.
Health and Economic Implications
Artificial light at night can throw our internal biological clock, or circadian rhythm, out of balance. This may lead to sleep disorders, fatigue, and an array of other health issues. Beyond its health ramifications, light pollution also has financial implications. It results in wasteful energy use, which translates into higher electricity bills and unnecessary carbon emissions.
UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)
In the 2019 UPSC Civil Services Examination, a relevant question was presented:
Q. On 21st June, the Sun:
(a) does not set below the horizon at the Arctic Circle
(b) does not set below the horizon at Antarctic Circle
(c) shines vertically overhead at noon on the Equator
(d) shines vertically overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn
Ans: (a)
This information is sourced from ET.