Science

Stunning Planetary Alignment Thrills Photographers in British Columbia

2025-01-29

Author: Wei Ling

Stunning Planetary Alignment Thrills Photographers in British Columbia

The skies of British Columbia are currently treating celestial enthusiasts to a spectacular alignment of six planets: Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Saturn, and Venus. This rare occurrence has ignited excitement among sky photographers and astronomers alike, as they seize the opportunity to capture the beauty of the cosmos.

Among them, Robert "Lucky" Budd, a Victoria-based writer and historian, has been pursuing his passion for astrophotography since the spring of 2020—a creative endeavor he embarked on during the COVID-19 pandemic. While many astronomers travel to specialized locations like the Cattle Point Dark Skies Park in Oak Bay, Budd finds inspiration from his own home, which offers a breathtaking view of the night sky.

With the recent string of clear nights and the absence of a bright moon, Budd has been able to capture stunning images that reveal the wonders of the universe. "These days we're experiencing incredibly clear skies," Budd shared. "When photographing the sky, it's ideal to do so during the waning phase of the moon or when there is no moonlight."

Budd feels fortunate to live near the ocean, which provides him access to various dark sky sites along with a perfect south-facing vantage point. He explains that the current planetary alignment is a unique event; the planets are positioned in an arc formation that hasn't been witnessed since 949 CE. While the inner three planets align every 40 years, this complete alignment is a significant moment for astronomy enthusiasts.

In addition to stunning images of Jupiter and Saturn, complete with their moons—Thetys, Enceladus, and Mimas—Budd is particularly drawn to the "star nurseries" that continue to beckon him. As night falls, the Orion constellation emerges prominently in the southern sky. Within Orion lies the famed Orion Nebula, noted as the closest "star-forming nursery" to Earth. Budd emphasized, "This nebula can even be seen with the naked eye if you're aware of where to look."

The nebula resides adjacent to Orion's "sword," resting just below Orion's Belt, which consists of three prominent stars. Below the first star in the belt is the elusive Horsehead Nebula, a dark silhouette against the backdrop of bright gas and dust, where "baby stars are being born." However, this celestial wonder is not visible without the aid of a telescope.

As the clear skies begin to give way to winter weather, which is expected shortly, Budd remains optimistic about future opportunities to explore the night sky. This current planetary alignment has not only provided breathtaking vistas but also has reignited a passion for astronomy and photography among many in British Columbia.

For those captivated by the cosmos, this breathtaking spectacle serves as a reminder of the beauty and wonder that lies above, waiting to be discovered. Don't miss out on your chance to witness it!