Six Planets Align February 28 2026 Visible After Sunset

Six planets will line up in the sky on February 28, 2026. This is a rare event with more planets visible than usual.
By Newsroom | Space, Astronomy |

A celestial event, referred to as a "planetary parade" or "planetary alignment," is set to occur on February 28, 2026. This phenomenon involves six planets—Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune—appearing to line up in the sky from Earth's perspective. While planetary alignments happen periodically, this particular event is noted for the number of planets visible.

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Understanding the Planetary Parade

A planetary parade describes a situation where multiple planets become visible in the night sky at the same time. This happens because planets orbit the Sun in nearly the same flat plane, and their orbits occasionally bring them to the same side of the Sun as viewed from Earth.

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  • Definition: A planetary parade is when several planets are visible in the sky simultaneously.

  • Frequency: These events occur a few times each year, with varying numbers of planets visible. A parade of six or seven planets is considered rare.

  • Orbital Mechanics: Planets orbit the Sun, and their paths align across the sky along a line called the ecliptic.

When and Where to Observe

The peak of this planetary parade is on February 28, 2026. The planets will be visible in the evening sky, shortly after sunset.

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  • Best Time: Approximately 30 minutes after local sunset.

  • Viewing Location:

  • West: Mercury, Venus, and Saturn will be low in the west.

  • East: Jupiter will be higher in the east.

  • Duration: The parade is expected to remain visible for several days following the peak date, though visibility of individual planets will change as they dip below the horizon.

Visible Planets and Equipment Needs

Of the six planets involved, some will be visible to the naked eye, while others may require optical aids.

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  • Visible to Naked Eye: Mercury, Venus, Saturn, and Jupiter.

  • Visible with Binoculars or Telescope: Uranus and Neptune.

It is important to note that Mercury and Venus will be visible low on the western horizon and will set soon after sunset, requiring prompt observation.

Context of the Alignment

This specific alignment includes Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Mars is not visible in this parade as it is on the opposite side of the Sun from Earth.

  • Classifications of Alignments:

  • Mini planetary alignment: three planets.

  • Small planetary alignment: four planets.

  • Large planetary alignment: five or six planets.

  • Great (full) planetary alignment: all Solar System planets.

This event is classified as a "large planetary alignment."

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the rare six-planet alignment happening in 2026?
The rare alignment of six planets, called a planetary parade, will happen on February 28, 2026. This event will be visible in the evening sky after the sun sets.
Q: Which six planets will be visible during the February 28, 2026 alignment?
The planets Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune will be visible during this alignment. Mars will not be visible as it is on the other side of the sun.
Q: How can I see the six planets aligning on February 28, 2026?
You can see the planets shortly after sunset on February 28, 2026. Mercury, Venus, and Saturn will be low in the west, while Jupiter will be higher in the east. Uranus and Neptune will need binoculars or a telescope.
Q: What is a planetary parade like the one on February 28, 2026?
A planetary parade is when several planets appear to line up in the sky from Earth. This happens because planets orbit the sun on a similar flat path. Seeing six planets at once is considered a large alignment and is quite rare.
Q: Do I need special equipment to see the six planets on February 28, 2026?
You can see Mercury, Venus, Saturn, and Jupiter with your own eyes. However, to see Uranus and Neptune, you will need binoculars or a telescope. Remember to look soon after sunset as Mercury and Venus set quickly.