Soon, Saturn, Neptune, and the Moon will appear to be waltzing closely together across the sky due to a rare astrological event. On this day, after sunset, during the early part of the evening, these two planets and the Moon will seem to be closer together in somewhat of a planetary gathering that will be wonderful for skywatchers. While those in Southern Africa can catch a glimpse of this sky splendour at exactly 19:35 SAST, the celestial spectacle will also be seen in all 45 states of the U.S. on the very same evening.
Take note of the date and discover why this day is so important
Americans can look forward to the close alignment of these two planets on one evening this month. The date is important as the Moon will be a 5-day-old crescent moon. With the older Moon being rather bright, it will be easier to spot Saturn. An optical aid may still be needed to view Neptune.
While noting down the date, it is important to understand why this event and the date of the event are so significant. This event happens a few weeks before the Saturn-Neptune conjunction, which is set to take place on February 20, 2026. So, on this night, viewers will see the Moon passing through the same region of the sky, causing a three-body structure to be visible and resulting in the alignment of the planets in a rather rare event.
Watch the sky during the early part of the evening
Citizens in all 45 states can catch a glimpse of this astronomical trio, which is known as the constellation of Pisces. To observers, Saturn will look like a pale yellow light. Neptune may be faint and harder to see. Saturn can thus be seen with the naked eye, shining at a magnitude of 1.0. A pair of binoculars may be required to catch a glimpse of Neptune, which will be shining at a magnitude of 7.9. The Moon, however, will shine at a magnitude of 1.1, being bright and visually delighting all observers.
Despite the space between the planets and the Moon, all three celestial bodies will fit into the observer’s lens or the telescopic view. Citizens should hope for clearer skies to enhance their vision, making this horoscopic sign easier to see. Observers have more or less three hours after the Sun sets to catch a glimpse of this wondrous sky event.
Why is the proximity between Saturn and Neptune important?
It would be worth your while to catch a glimpse of this pairing as Saturn and Neptune align once every 36 years. After this event, Neptune will enter Aries on January 26, and Saturn will also enter the Aries constellation in the early part of 2026.
Astronomers view the pairing of the planets as rather significant, as it reflects two planets transitioning between constellations rather closely. The Moon has a vital role to play on this specific evening in January as it enhances the visibility of this important yet rare moment. The Sun’s position changed to signify its rebirth, and now the planets will make their movements to mark their reset.
A chance to look at the sky in amazement
The sky is filled with sparkle, wonder, and a whole host of new revelations, but very rarely do we have the chance to really look up and study the movements of planets in the sky. On the evening of January 23, 2026, all American citizens have a reason to look up into the early evening sky to catch a rare yet beautiful event. Despite slower and stately movements, the planets will also be able to dance with each other, passing within 4°21’of each other.