Rare planetary spectacle: Venus, Jupiter, and more shine over Park City

Park City residents will have a front-row view as Venus, Jupiter, Mars and Saturn spread across both horizons on January 25, 2025, creating a natural cosmic display visible to the naked eye

PARK CITY, UT — According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, the skies above Park City, Utah, are set to host a celestial display that stargazers won’t want to miss. On January 25, Venus, Jupiter, Mars, and Saturn will create a breathtaking planetary showcase visible to the naked eye. While not a true planetary “lineup,” this rare event offers one of the most vibrant and accessible views in years.

Why This Event Stands Out in the Wasatch Back

The Old Farmer’s Almanac emphasizes that while this event is often misrepresented as a “lineup,” the planets will appear on opposite sides of the sky. From Park City’s elevated vantage points, this makes for an even more dramatic display. Beginning Thursday, January 16, at around 6:30 p.m., the western horizon will feature Venus and Saturn, while Jupiter and Mars will rise in the east, creating a cosmic panorama.

• Western Wonders: As The Old Farmer’s Almanac explains, Venus, the brightest object in the night sky, will dominate the western horizon. Saturn will appear just to its left, slightly dimmer due to its current distance and the edge-on view of its rings. Park City’s clear mountain skies should make this pair easy to spot without special equipment.
• Eastern Elegance: Jupiter will shine brightly in the east, with Mars appearing nearby as an orange-tinted “star.” Park City residents will also enjoy a stunning backdrop of constellations, including Taurus and Orion, as well as Sirius, the blue-white Dog Star, which The Old Farmer’s Almanac describes as “one of the closest stars to Earth.”

A Palette of Celestial Colors

The Almanac highlights the rich palette of colors visible during this event. From the brilliant white of Jupiter to the orange glow of Mars and the blue-white shimmer of Sirius, the sky over Park City will resemble a natural work of art. The contrast between these hues makes the event particularly striking, especially when observed from Park City’s dark-sky vantage points.

When and Where to Watch in Park City

For the best views, The Old Farmer’s Almanac recommends starting your stargazing around 6:30 p.m. Venus and Saturn will remain prominent in the west for about an hour before descending. Jupiter and Mars will rise higher in the east throughout the evening, making them visible well into the night.

Why This Matters

The Old Farmer’s Almanac describes this planetary showcase as a rare chance to connect with the cosmos. It’s not just a scientific phenomenon but also a reminder of the beauty and grandeur of the universe. The vibrant colors, brilliant luminosity, and accessibility of this event make it a standout for 2025.

Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a casual observer, The Old Farmer’s Almanac encourages everyone to step outside and experience this celestial spectacle. No telescope is needed—just an open sky and a sense of wonder.