Skywatchers, get ready: a breathtaking celestial event is lighting up the pre-dawn sky this week as six planets align in a rare and dazzling formation.
What’s Happening in the Sky?
On the morning of August 28, Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, and Saturn will form a visible line across the sky—a phenomenon known as a planetary alignment. While these alignments are more optical illusions than perfect formations, they offer a unique chance to witness multiple planets in close visual proximity.
Depending on your location and cloud cover, you might also spot the waning crescent moon nearby, adding a magical touch to the cosmic show.
Planetary Alignment vs. Planetary Parade
A planetary alignment occurs when three or more planets appear to line up in the sky. When five or more gather in a small section of the sky, it’s often dubbed a planetary parade—a more poetic than technical term, but one that reflects the rarity and spectacle of the event.
Though not in a perfect line, the illusion of alignment creates a stunning view from Earth’s perspective.
When and Where to Look
The best time to view this planetary parade is about an hour before sunrise, around 5:20 a.m. for those on the East Coast of the U.S.
To get the clearest view:
- Head to areas far from city lights (so-called dark sky zones).
- Bring a telescope or high-powered binoculars if you want to see Uranus and Neptune.
- Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn will be visible to the naked eye.
Each planet will rise at slightly different times and appear in various colors:
- Saturn appears first with a subtle yellow glow.
- Neptune shows up near Pisces.
- Uranus follows.
- Jupiter and Mars will be near the moon.
- Mercury will rise just before the sun.
Tips to Distinguish Planets from Stars
Here’s a trick: planets don’t twinkle. While stars flicker due to Earth’s atmosphere, planets shine with a steadier light. Jupiter, in particular, will be unmistakable—second in brightness only to the moon.
To enhance your viewing, use astronomy apps like Star Walk or Sky Guide to pinpoint each planet’s location in real time.
When’s the Next Alignment?
If you miss this week’s show, you won’t have to wait long. The next major alignment is scheduled for January 18, 2025, featuring Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Saturn, and Venus. Even more impressively, February 28, 2025 will showcase seven planets in alignment, including Mercury.