Parade of Planets 2026: How to Spot 6 Planets Aligning

Astronomers share tips on viewing the rare celestial event on February 28.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Skywatchers will have a chance to see a rare "parade of planets" on the night of February 28 into March 1, 2026, when Jupiter, Saturn, Venus, Neptune, Uranus, and Mercury will appear to line up in the sky. While not all planets will be easily visible, experts say Jupiter will be the brightest and easiest to spot.

Why it matters

Planetary alignments like this are relatively uncommon, with the next one not expected until 2040. This event provides an opportunity for stargazers to view multiple planets at once, offering a unique perspective on our solar system.

The details

The planets will appear to line up along a line in the sky, with Jupiter being the most prominent and easiest to see. However, Mercury, Venus, and Saturn will be very low on the horizon and difficult to spot without binoculars. Neptune and Uranus will require a telescope to view. Mars will not be visible at all, as it will be lost in the sun's light.

  • The planetary alignment will occur on the night of February 28 into March 1, 2026.
  • The best time to view the planets will be from dusk to around 3:30 a.m. on March 1.

The players

Michael Shanahan

The director of the Liberty Science Center Planetarium in New Jersey.

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What they’re saying

“The only planet you have an easy chance of seeing is Jupiter. Just look up anytime from dusk to about 3:30 a.m., find the brightest dot, and that will be Jupiter.”

— Michael Shanahan, Director of the Liberty Science Center Planetarium (today.com)

What’s next

The next time five planets will be visible to the naked eye and all seven planets will be able to be seen is on September 8, 2040, when they will be clustered above the setting sun.

The takeaway

This rare planetary alignment provides a unique opportunity for stargazers to view multiple planets in the night sky, though some will be more difficult to spot than others. With the next similar event not expected for over a decade, this February 2026 parade of planets is a must-see celestial event.