Additional Coverage:
Get ready for a celestial treat! Seven planets are aligning this week, creating a “planetary parade” in the night sky.
With clear skies, you might catch Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune, and Uranus. Look up just after sunset for the best viewing opportunity.
The prime viewing date depends on your location. While some cities had optimal viewing starting February 22nd, others will have the best views later in February or early March. February 28th is predicted to be the best viewing day worldwide.
Five of the planets – Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn – are visible to the naked eye. You’ll need a telescope to see Uranus and Neptune.
Look for reddish Mars high in the sky, bright Venus, and Jupiter slightly lower. Mercury and Saturn will be close to the horizon, making them harder to spot.
The planetary parade will only last a few minutes after sunset. Find a dark spot with a clear view of the horizon for the best experience.
This alignment is a visual treat from Earth’s perspective. The planets are actually far apart but appear lined up as they orbit the sun at different speeds and distances. These planetary movements are slow, which is why the alignment lasts several days.
Alignments of four or five planets happen every few years. Mark your calendars for more planetary shows in 2025, 2028, and 2034. While not once-in-a-lifetime events, these alignments are a wonderful reminder of our place in the solar system.
Even outside these alignments, you can often spot Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn in the night sky. So keep looking up!