February Sky Guide: Rare Multi-Planet Alignment Peaks Soon

🌟 What’s Happening

At the end of February 2026, a rare six-planet alignment often called a planetary parade will light up the evening sky. Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune will all appear clustered along the horizon after sunset making this one of the most striking celestial sights of the year.

📅 When to Watch

The best date to observe this event is February 28, 2026 shortly after sunset. Around 30–45 minutes after the sun goes down, the lineup will be visible across much of the world.

👀 What You’ll See

• Venus and Jupiter the brightest of the group will be easily seen with the naked eye.
• Mercury and Saturn may be visible too, though Mercury will sit close to the horizon and can be quick to disappear in twilight.
• Uranus and Neptune require binoculars or a small telescope because they are dimmer.

🌌 Why It Matters

While planets are always moving through the sky, seeing six planets visible around the same time and in the same part of the sky is uncommon. This occurs because the planets’ orbits lie nearly in the same plane the ecliptic and Earth’s perspective brings them into view together.

🧭 How to Watch

• Face the western horizon after sunset.
• A clear view with low light pollution improves visibility.
• Even without equipment, spotting a few planets like Venus is possible with binoculars you can expand the view to include fainter worlds.

✨ Bonus Tip

This alignment isn’t a perfect “straight line” in space it’s a perspective effect from Earth but it still offers a spectacular chance to see multiple planets together in the sky