Later this week, a rare and awe-inspiring event will take place in the night sky: no fewer than seven planets are set to align in a phenomenon known as a planetary parade. This alignment will feature Mars, Jupiter, Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, with some of these celestial bodies visible to the naked eye. While keen stargazers may have already spotted six of these planets earlier in January or February, the inclusion of Mercury on February 28 will complete the lineup, offering a unique opportunity to witness seven planets at once. The Greenwich Royal Observatory has highlighted this rare occurrence, and here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this cosmic spectacle.
The concept of planetary alignment might seem mysterious, but it’s actually rooted in the simple mechanics of our solar system. According to NASA, planetary alignment occurs when the planets, as they orbit the Sun, appear to line up in the sky from our perspective on Earth. This alignment can occur with other planets, the Moon, or even bright stars. When viewed from Earth, these planets will appear along a straight line or an arc, creating the illusion of a celestial parade. While alignments happen periodically, they are relatively rare, especially when involving six or more planets. Dr. Shyam Balaji, a researcher in astroparticle physics and cosmology at King’s College London, notes that such alignments occur roughly every few decades, making this event even more special.
For those in the UK eager to witness this spectacle, the weather forecast offers a mixed bag of good and not-so-good news. Sky News meteorologist Jo Robinson reports that high pressure over the UK on February 28 promises clear skies for most areas, ideal for stargazing. Many locations will remain dry with clear spells, though temperatures are expected to be chilly, with widespread frost predicted for the morning. Unfortunately, Ireland, Northern Ireland, and parts of northwest Scotland may experience cloudier skies due to incoming rain, though the forecast is subject to change. Any delay in the rain could offer a window of clearer skies, so keeping an eye on updates will be crucial for would-be planet-spotters.
An added bonus for this alignment is the presence of a new moon on February 28. A new moon occurs when the Moon is positioned directly between the Sun and Earth, with its shadowed side facing our planet. This phase means the Moon will not contribute to light pollution, creating darker skies and improving conditions for stargazing. The Greenwich Royal Observatory suggests that this darkness could even allow observers to glimpse distant galaxies, adding an extra layer of wonder to the night.
For those eager to spot as many planets as possible, it’s important to note that while five of the planets—Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn—are typically visible to the naked eye, their visibility this Friday is not guaranteed. Saturn, for instance, will be very low on the southwestern horizon after sunset, making it harder to spot without a telescope. Mercury, too, may be challenging to see without assistance, as it will appear faint and low on the horizon. Uranus, while technically visible with sharp eyesight, is quite faint and requires dark skies and a good understanding of its position among the stars. Neptune, on the other hand, will almost certainly require a telescope to observe. Jupiter and Venus, being the brightest planets, are likely to be the easiest to spot.
To maximize your chances of witnessing this rare event, Dr. Shyam Balaji offers some practical tips. First, find a location far from city lights, as light pollution can obscure fainter objects in the sky. Second, use astronomical software or websites to track the latest positions of the planets, ensuring you know where to look. Third, exercise caution when observing near sunrise or sunset, as the changing light can affect visibility. Finally, check reliable astronomy websites for updated viewing information as the date approaches. With these tips and a bit of luck with the weather, this planetary parade promises to be a memorable experience for stargazers of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a curious amateur, this rare alignment is an event not to be missed.
