Planetary Alignment (nothing to do with astrology)

[dmt740]

*THIS IS AN ACTUAL QUESTION, NOT A WHAT IF SCENARIO*

I just wondered if it has ever happened or could ever happen that all of the planets align? I'm not saying there are any consequences thereof, just want to know if it's realistically possible, why/why not. Basically just because I think it would be cool.

Thanks!

 

[russ_watters]

Since there is no such thing as perfection in real life, you'd have to specify what precision you are looking for. There have been many good alignments, including a notable one 20 or 30 years ago that helped facilitate exploration of the outer planets.

One thing you might try is to get ahold of a planetarium program or solar system simulator and run it forwards or backwards in time to see what kind of alignments you get.

 

[dmt740]

One thing you might try is to get ahold of a planetarium program or solar system simulator and run it forwards or backwards in time to see what kind of alignments you get.

Interesting idea. Do you know of any commercially(i.e. free) that are available?

 

[yenchin]

Interesting idea. Do you know of any commercially(i.e. free) that are available?

Stellarium would do.

 

[Kopachris]

Interesting idea. Do you know of any commercially(i.e. free) that are available?

Celestia (http://shatters.net/celestia/index.html) is my favorite. Stellarium (http://www.stellarium.org/) is also good.