The scientist assessed the possibility of observing a solar parade of planets in 2026

In January 2026, a rare astronomical phenomenon will occur — a solar parade of planets, coinciding with Christmas. However, it will be impossible to observe it from the Ground. This was told by Honorary Doctor of Sciences, lecturer Sergey Chumakov.

"The parade of planets is generally an optical illusion that occurs due to the movement of the Earth and other planets around the Sun. Sometimes in the sky from the Ground it seems that they are lined up in a big arc. This is called the parade of planets. A solar planet parade is when the planets line up on either side, or on one side of the Sun. This is also an illusion, because the planets are separated by distances of tens, hundreds of millions of kilometers. That is, in fact, there is no physical rapprochement," Chumakov explained.

According to the expert, the solar parade of planets passes too close to the Sun, so it is impossible to see it with the naked eye.

"The approach of planets from Earth is poorly visible or not visible at all, because most of them, again due to their proximity to the Sun, are "visible" in the daytime sky. Of course, we won't be able to see them, but the equipment will, of course. But I warn you that looking at the Sun with an armed eye, especially through a telescope, is deadly dangerous," the expert emphasized.

He noted that it is possible to record such a phenomenon only with the help of coronographs and other scientific equipment that allows observing the vicinity of the Sun without risking vision.

Chumakov clarified that solar parades of planets occur much less frequently than usual — about once every 10-20 years. The 2026 Christmas parade attracts attention because it will resemble the symbolic "Star of Bethlehem."

"Their rapprochement will take place a few days before Christmas, on the holiday itself and a few days after it. This optical illusion coincides with a bright holiday that will be celebrated by tens of millions of Christians around the world," the scientist concluded.

For more information, see the Izvestia article.

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