This week presents a rare opportunity to see all the major planets of the solar system in a single night.

Just after sunset tonight (Dec. 21) the two brightest planets will be shining, weather permitting. Venus, the brightest, rides low in the southwest just above the setting sun. Jupiter, the second brightest planet, is high in the south.


At 5 p.m. tonight, Dec. 21, Venus and Jupiter dominate the sky; Uranus and Neptune are visible between them with a small telescope.

CREDIT: Starry Night Software
Rare Sight! See All 7 Planets in the Night Sky This Week by Geoff Gaherty, Starry Night Education