Retrograde motion

Retrograde motion is the apparent backward movement of a planet across the sky, as observed from Earth. This optical illusion occurs when Earth, traveling in its orbit, overtakes an outer planet like Mars, making the planet appear to reverse direction temporarily against the backdrop of stars.

Source: apod.nasa.gov

APODs including "Retrograde motion"

Mars in the Loop

30/05/2025

When Z is for Mars

15/04/2023

Saturn and Jupiter in Summer 2020

12/12/2020

Mars in the Loop

08/11/2018

55 Nights with Saturn

29/09/2018

Retrograde Mars and Saturn

15/09/2016