A Rare, 5-Planet Alignment Will Be Visible This Month

A Rare, , 5-Planet Alignment , Will Be Visible This Month.

CNN reports that a rare phenomenon will occur this weekend as a five-planet alignment graces the night sky.

CNN reports that a rare phenomenon will occur this weekend as a five-planet alignment graces the night sky.

The alignment of Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn begins early in the morning hours of June 3.

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It has not occurred since December 2004.

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According to 'Sky & Telescope,' the distance between Mercury and Saturn will be smaller this time than it was in 2004.

In order to spot Mercury, viewers will need binoculars and a clear view of the eastern horizon.

Mercury will reportedly become brighter and easier to see as June progresses.

Diana Hannikainen, observing editor of 'Sky & Telescope,' says that the other aligned planets should consistently be visible to the naked eye.

According to Hannikainen, the best time to see the alignment is 30 minutes before sunrise.

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The phenomenon will be visible to people around the world.

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In the Northern Hemisphere, stargazers should look to the eastern and southeastern horizon.

Those in the Southern Hemisphere should look to the eastern and northeastern sky.

On June 24, the waning crescent moon will join the alignment between Venus and Mars