Six Planets Align in Rare Celestial Parade This Weekend

Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus and Neptune will stretch across the sky in a dazzling alignment on February 28.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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On February 28, a rare planetary alignment will be visible in the night sky, with six planets - Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus and Neptune - stretching across the sky in a dazzling display. This celestial event, known as a "planetary parade," will be best viewed shortly after sunset, with four of the six planets visible to the naked eye. Stargazers will need to time their viewing carefully and have an unobstructed view of the western horizon to catch the full lineup.

Why it matters

Planetary alignments like this are relatively rare, occurring only a few times per decade. This particular alignment is noteworthy as it includes all the planets in our solar system that are visible to the naked eye, making it an exciting opportunity for amateur astronomers and casual stargazers alike to witness a unique celestial event.

The details

The best viewing window for the planetary parade will be about an hour after sunset on February 28. Mercury, Venus, Saturn and Jupiter will be visible to the naked eye, with Venus and Mercury low on the western horizon and Saturn and Jupiter higher in the sky. Neptune and Uranus will also be present but will require binoculars or a telescope to spot. Clear skies and an unobstructed view of the western horizon will be essential for the best viewing experience.

  • The planetary alignment will be visible shortly after sunset on February 28, 2026.
  • The best viewing window will last for about an hour after sunset.

The players

Mercury

The closest planet to the Sun, Mercury will be visible low on the western horizon shortly after sunset.

Venus

The second planet from the Sun, Venus will be shining brightly just to the left of Mercury in the fading twilight.

Saturn

The ringed planet Saturn will be visible less than 10 degrees above and to the upper left of Venus.

Jupiter

The largest planet in our solar system, Jupiter will be dominating the eastern sky, high above the horizon.

Uranus

Uranus will be lower in the sky and will require a telescope or binoculars to spot.

Neptune

Neptune will be located about two degrees to the right of Saturn, but will also require a telescope or binoculars to see.

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What’s next

Stargazers should check their local weather forecasts and plan to be in a location with an unobstructed view of the western horizon shortly after sunset on February 28 to catch this rare celestial event.

The takeaway

This planetary alignment is a unique opportunity for both amateur and experienced astronomers to witness a rare celestial display, showcasing the intricate dance of the planets in our solar system.