At the end of this month, seven planets will align in the sky for the last time. This event called the planetary alignment will not occur again until 2040. The alignment will include Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Venus, Neptune, Mercury, and Saturn all in a straight line. The next alignment of five or more planets will occur at the end of October 2028 and then in February 2034. However, this month marks the last time all seven planets will align for 15 years.

As a result of a rare celestial event, all planets will briefly align in the night sky at the end of February. Taking place just after sunset on February 28, this event known as the planetary alignment will not occur again until 2040.

FINAL PLANETARY ALIGNMENT The planetary alignment will see Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Venus, Neptune, Mercury, and Saturn in a straight line, although not all planets will be visible to the naked eye. While most will appear brighter than the brightest stars, a telescope or binoculars will be required to see Neptune and Uranus. Alignments of four or five planets occur relatively regularly, but alignments of six or seven planets are quite rare. Experts recommend observing this celestial event just after sunset when the stars begin to appear in the sky.

“ALL PLANETS WILL BE VISIBLE TO THE NAKED EYE” Dr. Christopher Barnes, a senior lecturer at the University of Derby, stated to The Independent, “Even those living in cities and areas with light pollution will be able to see most of the planets, but it is recommended to find a darker place for the best views. Nearly all planets except Uranus and Neptune will be visible to the naked eye, while binoculars or a telescope will be needed for them.” The next alignment of five or more planets will occur at the end of October 2028 and then in February 2034. Another alignment of seven planets will not occur for another 15 years.