Unique photograph has successfully captured Earth alongside seven other planets for the very first time
Unique photograph has successfully captured Earth alongside seven other planets for the very first time
Dury, a celebrated astronomical photographer, captured a stunning panoramic image from the Mendip Hills in Somerset on February 22.
In a remarkable achievement, photographer Josh Dury, 27, affectionately referred to as the “Starman,” is thought to have taken the first-ever photograph featuring all seven planets alongside Earth in one frame. This extraordinary moment was made possible by a unique celestial occurrence known as the “great planetary parade,” which takes place when all eight planets align—a phenomenon that has not been witnessed since 1982.
Dury, captured the stunning panoramic image from the Mendip Hills in Somerset on February 22, possibly marking a historic moment with this remarkable photograph.
“On Saturday evening, I attempted to photograph the latest edition to the planetary parade; the planet Mercury. Now that it has passed our side of the Sun, it could now be visible low on the western horizon. The eagle-eyed amongst you will observe that it is not possible to observe all the planets at the same time, which you would be correct. Multiple exposures were documented, to capture Mercury, Saturn and Neptune low to the west. But do not let this image fool you – these planets are extremely difficult to observe, let alone photograph. Careful research and analysis of multiple images was needed to confirm their location,” says his instagram post.
To successfully photograph the challenging trio of Mercury, Saturn, and Neptune, Dury utilized a careful and detailed method. He constructed a panoramic image by combining several individual “panes.” For the specific pane that showcased these three planets, he implemented a dual-exposure technique: one foundational exposure and a second with heightened exposure and ISO settings to bring out the subtle light from the fainter planets.
To confirm their locations, he compared the image against standard sphere maps. For this impressive capture, Dury selected a Sony A7S II camera along with a Sigma 15mm Diagonal Fisheye lens.
The Planetary Parade: An Overview
Astronomers characterize planetary alignment as the occurrence in which several planets gather on one side of the Sun at the same time. This phenomenon can include anywhere from three to eight planets. Although smaller alignments happen with some regularity, larger configurations are less common. In particular, alignments involving five planets are more frequent than those with six, while the most remarkable and rare event is the alignment of all seven planets, marking a truly extraordinary moment in the celestial calendar.
“I managed to capture a panorama image of the seven planets, AKA – the planetary parade. It is made of nine images, revealing Saturn, Mercury and Neptune. They were very tricky to spot. I used multiple image analysis and astronomy apps to confirm their location As this was taken with a wide-angle lens, the nine images stitched to a panorama and a HDR blend of one of the frames to reveal Saturn, Neptune and Mercury. These three planets are not easy to see at all. Being close to the sun and in the attempt to photograph them as soon as they were readily visible, the relative positions of these three planets are slightly misaligned due to their approximate visibility from the imaging location and low western cloud,” Dury told the Telegraph.
On February 28, a unique and ephemeral event will take place, allowing for the visibility of all planets in our solar system in the night sky. After the alignment of Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune from January 21-29, this occasion will represent the final opportunity until 2040 to witness all seven planets, along with Mercury, coming together for a stunning celestial spectacle.
The planetary alignment will be observable throughout India, with many cities having the opportunity to experience this extraordinary event. Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Uranus will be visible without any optical aid. In contrast, Mercury, Saturn, and Neptune will require a telescope for viewing, as they will appear quite dim.
As reported by the BBC, the ideal times for observation will occur shortly after sunset on Thursday, February 27, and Friday, February 28. Enthusiasts should be prepared to act quickly, as the opportunity to see all seven planets will be limited.
Saturn and Mercury will be sinking below the horizon alongside the sun, presenting a challenge for those hoping to spot them.
