As February comes to a close, skygazers are in for a treat as six planets are set to align in what is known as a planetary parade. This rare celestial event occurs when multiple planets appear to line up in the sky, although they are not in a straight line but are clustered together on one side of the sun.
According to NASA, this planetary parade will be visible to the naked eye, with Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn all easily spotted after sunset. Uranus and Neptune, however, will require binoculars or telescopes to be seen.
When to View the Planetary Parade
This weekend, on Saturday, the planets Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn will be visible to the naked eye, weather permitting. Uranus and Neptune will be more challenging to spot without the aid of binoculars or telescopes.
Optimal Viewing Time
To catch a glimpse of the planetary parade, head outside about an hour after sunset and find a location away from tall buildings and trees that may obstruct your view. Look towards the western sky to see Mercury, Venus, and Saturn near the horizon, while Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune will be higher up.
Identifying Planets in the Sky
If you’re unsure whether you’re looking at a star or a planet, remember this tip from planetary scientist Sara Mazrouei: “If it’s twinkling, it’s a star. If it is not twinkling, it’s a planet.”
The planetary parade will be visible over the weekend and in the following days, with Mercury eventually setting below the horizon. NASA notes that at least one bright planet is visible on most nights.
Related: Astronomers Reveal Our Best Glimpse Yet of Planets Being Born
Observing multiple planets in the sky simultaneously is a unique opportunity to connect with ancient astronomers who marveled at the cosmos by simply looking up at the stars and planets, as explained by planetary scientist Emily Elizondo from Michigan State University.
