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Six-Planet Parade To Brighten Post-Sunset Skies Late February

Observers should look about an hour after sunset toward the west-southwest for the clearest view.

Overview

  • Reports cite StarWalk in forecasting a visual peak on February 28 with several good viewing evenings on either side.
  • Optimal dates vary by location, with São Paulo favored around February 25, New York on February 28, London on March 1, and Argentina likely near February 25.
  • Mercury, Venus, Jupiter and Saturn should be visible to the naked eye, while Uranus and Neptune will require binoculars or a small telescope.
  • The display is a line-of-sight grouping along the ecliptic rather than a physical alignment, and it carries no special effects for Earth.
  • Outlets differ on lunar conditions near the peak—some flag a bright Moon near Jupiter, others emphasize darker skies after the February 17 new moon—so dark, unobstructed sites are recommended, including noted Starlight-certified areas in Catalonia.