February to Feature Rare Six-Planet Parade in Evening Skies

News Desk 

Islamabad: Skywatchers are in for a celestial treat in the final week of February, as 2026’s first planetary parade lights up the evening sky, offering a rare chance to see six planets at once.

The phenomenon will feature Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune visible in the night sky — just one planet short of a complete planetary lineup. Such events occur only a few times each year, with the last similar display recorded in February 2025.

For observers in the Northern Hemisphere, the best time to view the planetary parade will be shortly after sunset during the last week of February. Astronomers recommend looking toward the sky around 6:45 p.m. local time, though the viewing window will be brief. Mercury and Venus are expected to dip below the horizon within 30 to 45 minutes.

Four planets — Mercury, Venus, Saturn and Neptune — will appear clustered low on the western horizon, making them easier to locate together. Jupiter and Uranus, however, will remain visible for a longer duration. Uranus will be positioned in the southern sky near the Taurus constellation, while Jupiter will shine prominently near Gemini.

The best dates to observe the planetary alignment across the United States, Canada and Mexico are February 21 to 28. The event will also be visible in many parts of the world, including regions from London to Tokyo.

To enhance the viewing experience, experts advise using sky maps or astronomy apps such as Stellarium. While Mercury, Venus, Jupiter and Saturn can be spotted with the naked eye under clear conditions, a telescope or binoculars will be necessary to clearly observe Uranus and Neptune.

Clear skies and an unobstructed view of the horizon will be key to catching this rare cosmic display.