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Six-Planet Alignment Peaks Feb. 28 With Brief Post-Sunset Viewing Window

NASA says the lineup is a perspective effect with no influence on Earth.

Overview

  • Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune will appear along the ecliptic shortly after sunset on February 28.
  • The prime viewing window is about 30 to 60 minutes after sundown, and a clear western horizon is essential.
  • NASA says Mercury, Venus, Saturn and Jupiter may be visible to the naked eye, while Uranus and Neptune typically require binoculars or a telescope.
  • Mercury and Saturn will sit very low and set quickly, so trees, buildings or terrain could block them without an unobstructed vantage point.
  • Jupiter will be bright and higher in the sky, and small binoculars can reveal its moons; in New York City, begin looking around 6:16 p.m.