A rare six-planet alignment will occur in late February 2026, with February 28 noted as the prime evening for observers in India. The planets involved in this celestial display include Mercury, Venus, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus, and Jupiter. Skywatchers across the country will have the opportunity to witness this extraordinary event shortly after sunset, provided weather conditions are favorable.

Visibility and Observational Tips

Mercury, the closest planet to the Sun, will be located between Earth and the Sun, making it the nearest visible planet in the evening sky. By February 19, Mercury will reach its greatest eastern elongation, and by February 28, it will be dimmer yet well-positioned for viewing. To spot Mercury from India, observers will need an unobstructed view of the western horizon and precise timing right after sunset. Binoculars may be useful in enhancing visibility.

Venus, another inner planet, will also appear in the evening sky, becoming more prominent as February progresses. It will set in the west significantly later after sunset. On the evening of February 28, Venus will be located close to Mercury, making the two planets easier to locate together. Due to its brightness, Venus is likely to be spotted first, allowing observers to then search for Mercury nearby.

Among the planets visible that night, Jupiter will stand out as the most easily identifiable. It will be positioned high in the sky after sunset, making it accessible even from urban areas with light pollution. If observers manage to identify only one planet during this celestial spectacle, Jupiter is highly likely to be that planet. Its visibility will not require binoculars, and it can be found slightly southeast after sunset.

Saturn will also feature prominently in this planetary alignment, sitting above Mercury and Venus in the twilight sky. All three planets will cluster near the western horizon, providing a rewarding sight for viewers. While Saturn can be observed without special equipment, its visibility window is limited, so quick observation after sunset is essential. Areas with darker skies, such as Ladakh and rural Rajasthan, will enhance viewing prospects.

Uranus, recognized as an ice giant, will be positioned high in the sky during this period. Although it is generally challenging to see with the naked eye, its elevation may allow for easier viewing under favorable conditions. However, binoculars or a telescope are recommended for sighting Uranus, as atmospheric clarity increases with altitude.

Neptune, being the farthest planet from the Sun, will be less accessible. Typically requiring a telescope for any chance of visibility, it will be situated close to Saturn on February 28. Care must be taken when attempting to view Uranus through a telescope, as capturing a glimpse of the setting Sun could result in serious eye damage.

Optimal Viewing Conditions Across India

The ideal timeframe for observing these planets in India is between 6:15 PM and 8:00 PM Indian Standard Time, dependent on the viewer’s location. Regions such as Ladakh, portions of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and coastal areas of Tamil Nadu are expected to offer the best visibility, contingent on weather conditions. Even residents of major metropolitan areas like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru should be able to witness the brighter planets, including Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn, without any optical aids.

For many Indian skywatchers, the likely target will be four of the planets: Venus, Mercury, Saturn, and Jupiter, with the potential for spotting Uranus as an added bonus for those equipped with binoculars. This celestial alignment promises to deliver a spectacular view worth stepping outside for on the evening of February 28, 2026.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share