CINCINNATI (WKRC) - Hold onto your telescopes, star lovers! January is set to deliver a celestial spectacle that will have astronomers and casual stargazers alike racing outdoors. According to NASA, a remarkable six planets will be visible in the night sky this month, with four shining brightly for all to see with the naked eye.

The astronomical excitement kicks off on January 3, when the Quadrantid meteor shower reaches its peak. This dazzling display, featuring an impressive number of shooting stars, may be a perfect start to your New Year stargazing adventures. But if you missed catching those fleeting meteors, don’t worry—January is just getting started!

Mark your calendars for January 13, when the moon will visually transit in front of Mars, a captivating event that varies by location. Interested skywatchers are encouraged to use skywatching apps and online tools to pinpoint the best viewing times in their area.

As the month progresses, January 17 and 18 will bring Venus and Saturn into an astonishingly close formation in the night sky—so close, they will appear just a couple of finger widths apart! This sight alone is worth a look!

For those eager to catch a glimpse of the planets, the best viewing opportunities will occur during the early evening hours. Expect to see Venus and Saturn sparkling in the southwest, the giant planet Jupiter shining overhead, and the reddish hue of Mars rising in the east. For those equipped with telescopes, the distant planets Uranus and Neptune are also up for exploration.

The noteworthy alignment of these bright planets presents a rare opportunity for both amateur and seasoned astronomers. NASA noted that while planets consistently align along a broad pathway known as the ecliptic, witnessing multiple bright planets visible at once is a striking phenomenon that should not be missed.

Don’t forget to gather your friends and family for this otherworldly experience, and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of our universe right from your backyard. So gear up, grab your binoculars or telescopes, and let the stargazing begin—January will surely be a month to remember!