Retrograde Motion in Pictures: The Truth About Retrograde Planets

What is retrograde motion? In astronomy, the meaning is simple: it’s an optical illusion in which a planet appears to slow down, stop, and temporarily reverse direction across the night sky. This infographic gives a true retrograde motion meaning, explains the science behind retrograde planets, and shows why there’s no reason to fear Mercury retrograde. Use the free Sky Tonight app to follow any planet’s path and visualize retrograde loops in your own sky.

Check our full article on retrograde motion in astronomy to learn the upcoming retrograde periods of Mercury and other planets for this year.

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