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The Pathani Samanta Planetarium, nestled in the heart of Bhubaneswar, is gearing up to host a ‘Parade of Planets‘ from January 21st to January 31st, 2025. This rare alignment of six planets – Mars, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune, and Uranus – in the night sky is an event not to be missed.
The Parade of Planets: A Rare Alignment
This celestial phenomenon, known as a ‘Parade of Planets,’ occurs when multiple planets align in a way that they appear close to each other from our perspective on Earth. Scheduled to start on January 21, 2025, this alignment allows for an exceptional viewing opportunity where:
Mars, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn: These planets will be visible to the naked eye, offering a stunning visual display.
Neptune and Uranus: Viewing these distant planets requires optical aid, such as telescopes or binoculars, provided by the planetarium.
Pathani Samanta Planetarium: Your Viewing Destination
The Pathani Samanta Planetarium, named after the renowned Odia astronomer, is not just a venue for this event but a beacon of scientific enlightenment in Odisha. Here’s why it’s the perfect spot for this celestial parade:
Location: Situated in Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, making it accessible for both locals and tourists.
Facilities: Equipped with state-of-the-art projectors and telescopes, ensuring an optimal viewing experience of this rare alignment.
Timing: The planetarium will host viewing sessions from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM daily, except Mondays, providing a comfortable time frame for visitors.
Significance of Parade of Planets
Astronomy Education: The planetarium will likely conduct special sessions explaining the mechanics of planetary alignments, fostering a deeper understanding of our solar system among attendees.
Cultural Connection: Named after Pathani Samanta, this event ties into Odisha’s rich heritage of astronomy, celebrated through his contributions to the field with naked-eye observations.
Why Attend the Parade of Planets at Pathani Samanta Planetarium?
Visual Spectacle: Witnessing six planets align is a rare occurrence, providing a breathtaking view of our solar system’s dynamics.
Learning Opportunity: It’s an excellent chance for educational institutions to bring students, enhancing their curriculum with real-time astronomical events.
Community Gathering: Such events foster a sense of community among those interested in space, creating a platform for discussions and networking.
Public Participation: By hosting such events, the planetarium encourages public participation in scientific observation, making astronomy accessible to all.
Local Involvement: Local astronomers and enthusiasts are often involved in these events, sharing their knowledge and passion, thus strengthening the community’s bond with science.
Tips for Visitors
Clear Skies: Check weather forecasts for clear skies, as this enhances visibility.
Arrive Early: Given the popularity of such events, arriving early can secure you a good spot.
Bring Your Gear: While the planetarium provides viewing equipment, enthusiasts might want to bring their telescopes or cameras for personal documentation.
Conclusion
The ‘Parade of Planets’ at Pathani Samanta Planetarium is not just an event; it’s a celebration of our connection to the cosmos, a tribute to Odisha’s scientific legacy, and a golden opportunity for education and community engagement. From January 21st to January 31st, 2025, between 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM, step into the world of astronomy at this iconic venue in Bhubaneswar.
