Planets have always been a source of fascination for humanity. Our ancestors observed their movement against the backdrop of stars in the night sky and were captivated by their ever-changing positions. They came up with various explanations for this behavior and even assigned divine names to these wandering stars. The word “planet” itself derives from the Ancient Greek word “planetes,” which means “wanderer.”

In early November, around 6 p.m., a distinct pale yellow star can be observed ascending from the eastern horizon. This star continues to track across the sky throughout the night, gradually settling towards the western horizon as the Sun begins to rise. Its brightness makes it easily noticeable, and if you are not accustomed to observing the night sky, you may find yourself wondering what it is.

The movement of planets is what makes them stand out from the fixed stars. Unlike the stars, which appear to maintain their positions relative to each other, planets are constantly in motion. This motion is caused by their orbits around the Sun. Each planet has its own unique orbit, resulting in its distinct path across the night sky.

While planets may be visible for several nights in a row, their positions are never the same. They continually change their location relative to the background stars, creating a dynamic and ever-shifting celestial display. This ongoing motion of planets has been a subject of scientific study throughout history, leading to our current understanding of the solar system and its celestial bodies.

So, the next time you gaze up at the night sky and see a wandering star, remember that it is a planet on its never-ending journey, captivating us with its elusive wanderings against the stellar tapestry of the universe.