On February 28, 2026, a unique astronomical event will occur on Earth — a parade of six planets.
According to information from NASA, the parade will include Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. It is worth noting that on February 27, 2025, an even rarer phenomenon occurred when seven planets — Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune — aligned in a straight line. The next similar event is not expected until 2040.
This phenomenon is explained by the fact that all the planets move along orbits that are close to a single plane, known as the ecliptic. Despite the variety in their speeds and distances from the Sun, sometimes it appears from Earth that they align in a straight line. However, this is merely an optical illusion, as in reality, the planets are millions and billions of kilometers apart in space.
Of the six planets that will be visible during this parade, four — Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Jupiter — can be seen with the naked eye. Observing Uranus and Neptune will require telescopes. It should be noted that Mercury may be difficult to distinguish due to its low position above the horizon.
The best time for observation is approximately half an hour after sunset. Experts recommend looking at the western sky from a location with an open horizon and clear weather. It is best if the planets are at least 10 degrees above the horizon, as the atmosphere near Earth distorts the light of celestial objects.
This phenomenon will be visible to people all over the world, although the time of peak visibility may vary depending on geographical location. According to Star Walk, for residents of São Paulo, the optimal observation date is February 25, for Athens, New York, Mexico City, and Tokyo — February 28, for Beijing, Berlin, London, and Mumbai — March 1, and for Reykjavik — March 2.
