Six planets align tonight: Rare ‘Planetary Parade’ to light up the evening sky

Clear skies will reveal a stunning straight-line alignment of six major planets shortly after sunset, offering skywatchers a rare and unforgettable celestial experience.

Sky lovers and astronomy enthusiasts are in for a visual treat today (Saturday, February 28) as a rare celestial event, known as a Planetary Parade, is set to unfold across the evening sky. If weather conditions remain clear, observers in India and many parts of the world will witness six planets appearing in a near-perfect straight line, shortly after sunset.

According to astronomers, this rare alignment will feature Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Notably, Mars will not be part of this sequence. Such multi-planet alignments are uncommon and provide a valuable opportunity for both casual stargazers and serious astronomy enthusiasts.

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The spectacular event will begin around 30 minutes after sunset. Viewers are advised to look towards the western horizon for the best view. Since urban areas suffer from heavy light pollution, experts recommend observing from open grounds, terraces, or elevated spots away from bright city lights.

Among the visible planets, Venus will shine the brightest, easily noticeable in the western sky. Mercury and Venus will appear close to the horizon. Jupiter, glowing steadily, will be visible near the Orion constellation in the southern sky. While Saturn and Jupiter can be spotted with the naked eye, Uranus and Neptune are extremely distant and will require good-quality binoculars or a telescope for clear viewing.

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Astronomy experts highlight that stars usually twinkle, whereas planets emit steady light, helping viewers distinguish between them. They also caution observers not to look towards the Sun before it fully sets, as direct sunlight can cause permanent eye damage.

This rare alignment promises a breathtaking celestial show, making tonight a must-watch for anyone fascinated by the wonders of the universe.