Overview
- The compact grouping of Mercury, Mars, Saturn and Neptune reaches its best viewing window April 18–20, when the planets sit tightly together before sunrise.
- Observers typically have only 30–60 minutes to look toward the eastern horizon in dark, clear conditions before dawn light washes the scene out.
- Mercury, Mars and Saturn can be seen with the naked eye under clear skies, while faint Neptune requires a telescope to spot.
- Indian cities such as Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad are well placed near the equator, with viewing around 5:00–5:50 AM IST depending on location.
- Formations change across mornings, with Mars passing near Neptune earlier in the week and a more linear pattern likely by April 20, so each day offers a slightly different view.