Celestial Spectacle Spans the Night (Image Credits: Pixabay)
Las Vegas – Skywatchers in the Las Vegas Valley hold a unique chance to spot all seven other planets in the solar system through the end of February.[1]
Celestial Spectacle Spans the Night
Observers witness a striking display as Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune appear overhead at different times. The planets spread across the heavens rather than clustering in one tight alignment.[1][2] Clear conditions prevail on several upcoming evenings, enhancing prospects for success. Local experts note the event draws amateur astronomers outdoors despite urban light pollution.
Visibility varies by time and equipment. Four planets shine to the naked eye under ideal skies, while the outer two demand binoculars or telescopes. Patience rewards those who scan methodically after dark.
Western Horizon Hosts Early Evening Stars
Shortly after sunset around 5:30 p.m., turn westward for Mercury and Venus. These inner worlds hug the horizon as brilliant points of light, with Venus positioned left of Mercury. Saturn gleams higher above them, often showing a faint yellow hue as the sole bright object in that sector.[1]
Neptune lurks nearby but challenges viewers as the most distant planet. Powerful optics reveal its subtle glow just after twilight fades. East valley locations offer clearer western vistas, free from Spring Mountains interference.
Jupiter and Uranus Command the Overhead View
Jupiter emerges as the sky’s brightest wanderer toward the southeast, dominating from evening through much of the night. Its steady glow outshines nearby stars, making identification straightforward. Rise times place it high by dusk, ideal for extended observation.[3]
Uranus hangs nearly due south, elevated beneath the Pleiades cluster. Binoculars unveil this pale orb during prime evening hours. The pair creates a compelling duo for mid-sky gazing.
Mars Greets the Pre-Dawn Sky
Mars appears low in the east before sunrise, resembling a pale pink beacon around 5:52 a.m. An unobstructed eastern horizon proves essential amid morning twilight. Though faint, its color distinguishes it from stars.[1][3]
Early risers in less obstructed areas maximize sightings. The Red Planet sets early afternoon but returns for dawn patrols through March.
Essential Tools and Local Viewing Spots
Andrew Kerr, manager of the College of Southern Nevada’s Dale Etheridge Planetarium, advises using online sky maps for precise locating. “The planets are very spread out across the sky, not exactly what people are expecting based on the planetary parade concept,” he said.[1] Non-twinkling lights signal planets amid stellar twinkles. Seek darker enclaves away from the Strip’s glare.
| Planet | Best Time | Direction | Naked Eye? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mercury | After sunset | West | Challenging |
| Venus | After sunset | West | Yes |
| Saturn | Just after sunset | West | Yes |
| Jupiter | All evening | Southeast | Yes |
| Uranus | Evening | South | Binoculars |
| Neptune | Early evening | West | Telescope |
| Mars | Pre-dawn | East | Challenging |
Public telescope sessions occur at the planetarium near East Cheyenne Avenue and North Pecos Road starting around 9 p.m. The Las Vegas Astronomical Society hosts events on March 14.
Key Takeaways:
- All seven planets appear through February’s end, though not simultaneously.
- Western views demand clear horizons; east valley spots excel.
- Apps and steady lights simplify identification for beginners.
This cosmic lineup underscores the solar system’s dynamic beauty, accessible even from a bustling city. Grab binoculars and step outside tonight – what planets will you catch first? Share your sightings in the comments.
