On the evening of February 28, astronomers predict a unique celestial event — a planet parade featuring six planets lined up in a row, according to information from Euronews.
This effect is achieved because the orbits of all the planets, including Earth, are located roughly in the same plane, known as the ecliptic plane. Although the planets do not actually line up perfectly in space, at the moment of the "parade," they will be in the same sector, allowing observers on Earth to see them in a line.
The parade will consist of Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. This astronomical phenomenon can be observed not only on the day of the event but also a day or two before and after February 28.
The optimal time for observation is about half an hour to an hour after sunset, with the best view facing west.
Four planets: Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn can be seen with the naked eye.
Venus stands out for its brightness in the evening sky. Jupiter will also be noticeable, positioned slightly higher and more southeast compared to Venus, while Saturn will be less bright and closer to the horizon. Mercury, compared to the others, will be the most difficult to observe, as it can only be seen for a short period after sunset.
To find Uranus and Neptune in this lineup, a telescope or at least binoculars will be required.
This year, astronomical events are not limited to this parade: on April 18, there will be a small morning parade featuring Mercury, Mars, Saturn, and Neptune; on June 12, a mini-parade will include Mercury, Venus, and Jupiter; another major morning parade is scheduled for August 12, featuring Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Neptune; and then, on November 14, in the morning, Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Jupiter will line up.
