This digitally enhanced image shows the spectacular view early risers can enjoy looking east from Mt Lofty.
Mercury, Venus, Mars and Jupiter are lining up in the east, before sunrise. On Sunday the thin crescent Moon was also close by, but now the Moon is no longer visible at dawn.
Set the alarm for 5.30am and find a clear view of the early morning sky, close to the horizon, facing east-northeast.
If you’re not sure where to look, grab a compass or check the street directory for the orientation of your street.
At Mount Lofty Summit, facing away from the city, the dance of the planets should appear behind Flinders Column.
Astro Space News editor, astronomer Dave Reneke, says the “conjunction” is a rare event.
The last one was February 2009 and the “smiley face” of December 2008 was particularly memorable. “What you will be able to see is the planets grouped very close to each other,” he said.
“This is worth getting up early to see.”
The most spectacular viewing will be on the morning of May 12, when all four planets will be within 6 degrees of each other, Mr Reneke said.
