On February 28, 2025, stargazers around the world will be treated to the Great Parade of Planets, marking a rare alignment of all eight planets of our Solar System. According to ROSSIYSKAYA GAZETA, this extraordinary phenomenon will see the planets line up on one side of the Sun, offering viewers a spectacular celestial display.
This exceptional event coincides with the New Moon, creating optimal conditions for observation, as explained by Evgeny Burmistrov, an astronomy instructor at Perm Polytechnic University. He noted, "This event coincides with the New Moon, providing ideal conditions for viewing even the dimmest planets."
Starting from shortly after sunset, four planets—Venus, Jupiter, Mercury, and Mars—can be easily spotted with the naked eye. "Venus, Jupiter, Mercury, and Mars will be visible without telescopes, whereas Uranus and Neptune will require optical aids," Burmistrov added. Meanwhile, Saturn will be the most challenging to observe, necessitating precise timing to catch it at the right moment.
For those seeking the best vantage point for viewing this spectacular display, it’s recommended to choose locations with minimal light pollution, particularly away from urban settings. Specialists from Starwalk.space highlighted, "The planetary alignment is happening at dusk and will be visible from nearly all parts of the world, weather permitting."
The rarity of such alignments is largely due to the differing orbital periods of the planets. For example, it takes Neptune around 60,190 days to complete its orbit compared to Earth’s 365 days. This substantial variation is why such alignments are infrequent.
Historically, the next chance to witness such an alignment won’t occur until 2040, making the February 2025 event particularly exciting for astronomy enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike. The anticipation surrounding this celestial event has sparked interest across various communities, eager to engage with the cosmos.
Astro-enthusiasts are encouraged to prepare for this event, ensuring they have the necessary equipment—binoculars or telescopes may prove beneficial for observing the outer planets. Burmistrov also mentioned the position of each planet, indicating Mars will be high above the southern horizon, with Jupiter and Uranus positioned lower nearby.
Observation conditions depend heavily on weather, so it’s best for observers to remain flexible and vigilant, adjusting their plans based on forecasts leading up to the date.
Overall, the Great Parade of Planets on February 28, 2025, promises to be not only a rare astronomical event but also a tremendous opportunity for global connection through the shared joy of stargazing. Whether with family, friends, or community groups, witnessing the alignment of the planets will be memorable, adding to the rich tradition of humanity's fascination with the night sky.