Josh Dury, a UK-based photographer known as “Starman” among astronomy enthusiasts, recently captured a rare panoramic image showing all eight planets – including Earth – in a single frame. The photograph was taken on February 22, 2025, during an unusual astronomical event called the “planetary parade,” when all eight planets align on one side of the Sun.
To achieve this feat, Dury employed two photographic techniques: taking a base exposure to capture brighter planets and using a higher ISO and longer shutter speed to capture fainter bodies. He also used software and mapping apps to determine the precise locations of each planet and stitched together nine separate images to create a clear panoramic view.
However, Dury’s photograph has been disputed by some due to concerns about atmospheric conditions distorting visibility and positioning of the planets. The alignment is extremely rare, occurring only once every 43 years, and the next event isn’t expected until 2040.
Astronomers define a planetary alignment as multiple planets appearing close together in the sky when observed from Earth, rather than being physically aligned in space. The recent alignment has seen different planets gradually aligning between January 21 and February 28, offering a rare chance for sky-watchers to observe nearly the entire solar system.
Dury’s image is notable, but some argue that it does not accurately represent all eight planets due to limitations of the photographic technique used. Nevertheless, his achievement highlights the challenges and opportunities in astrophotography, and demonstrates the ongoing efforts of photographers to capture rare and significant astronomical events.
Source: https://fstoppers.com/astrophotography/historic-planetary-alignment-photographer-captures-all-eight-planets-rare-694264