What time is the February 2025 planetary alignment? Dates, times, which planets align and how to view the historic conjunction
One of the great astronomical phenomena of the year is happening tonight, when seven planets will be visible in line from Earth, a once-in-a-lifetime event.
On 28 February, 2025, skywatchers are in for a breathtaking celestial event: a rare planetary alignment featuring seven planets visible from Earth. This phenomenon, known as a “planetary parade,” is one of the most anticipated astronomical events of the year—and it won’t happen again until 2176.
What is a planetary alignment?
Planetary alignments occur when three or more planets appear in a straight line from Earth’s perspective. While alignments of six planets happen from time to time—the last one was just a month ago and another is expected in August—alignments involving seven planets are exceedingly rare.
Be sure and go outside, look up, and see the planetary alignment this week! Start looking as soon as the Sun sets below the horizon. Venus is brightest. https://t.co/yNh1dYZKbd
— Chris Hadfield (@Cmdr_Hadfield) February 25, 2025
(image ©Vito Technology, Inc.) pic.twitter.com/D8yuQrdJ0y
However, it’s important to note that this is not a true astronomical event but rather an optical illusion. The planets orbit the Sun independently, but from our vantage point on Earth, they appear to line up along the ecliptic plane.
Which planets will align on 28 February?
The seven planets involved in this alignment are Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. While some of them will be easily visible to the naked eye, others will require telescopes or binoculars. Here’s what to expect:
- Mercury: This small planet will be near the horizon in the Aquarius constellation, close to the Sun and thus difficult to see.
- Venus: One of the brightest objects in the night sky, Venus will stand out in the Pisces constellation.
- Mars: Recognizable by its reddish hue, Mars will be positioned higher in the sky, within the Gemini constellation.
- Jupiter: The second-brightest planet in this alignment, Jupiter will be visible in the Taurus constellation, just below Mars.
- Saturn: Due to its proximity to the Sun, Saturn will be more challenging to spot, but in areas with minimal light pollution, it should be visible low to the horizon.
- Uranus: Located near the border of Taurus and Aries, Uranus will be very faint and best viewed with optical aid.
- Neptune: Positioned just above the western horizon, Neptune will not be visible without specialized equipment.
When and where to see the planetary parade
The best time to witness this extraordinary event will be on Friday, 28 February, 2025. Observers in the US should look towards the western sky. The alignment will begin to be visible after sunset, but you will have to wait until the sky gets darker when the planets will be easier to see.
For the most stunning view, find a location with minimal light pollution, such as a rural area or an observatory. Also avoid areas with tall buildings, physical geographical features or trees blocking your view of the horizon.
Time of sunset 28 February, 2025 for major US cities
Depending on whether you live at a higher or lower latitude and where you are located within your respective time zone in the United States, the time of the sunset will be different. Below are some major cities across the nation to provide reference. You can check out the exact time of the sunset on the website Time and Date.
| City | Time of Sunset |
|---|---|
| New York City | 5:46 pm ET |
| Atlanta | 6:33 pm ET |
| Miami | 6:22 pm ET |
| Chicago | 5:40 pm CT |
| Dallas | 6:23 pm CT |
| Denver | 5:51 pm MT |
| Los Angeles | 5:48 pm PT |
| San Francisco | 6:02 pm PT |
Global visibility dates and locations
The astronomy platform Star Walk has compiled a list of key locations around the world where the planets will be most visible, along with the dates when they will appear in the smallest sector of the sky:
| City | Date | Sky Sector |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | 22 February | 166-degree |
| Mexico City | 25 February | 170-degree |
| New York | 25 February | 157-degree |
| Hong Kong | 27 February | 174-degree |
| Berlin | 2 March | 141-degree |
| London | 2 March | 142-degree |
| Mumbai | 3 March | 169-degree |
| Beijing | 3 March | 159-degree |
| Sydney | 3 March | 122-degree |
| São Paulo | 4 March | 126-degree |
How to get the best view
To make the most of this rare celestial event:
- Use a stargazing app to locate the planets in real time.
- Bring binoculars or a telescope to view Uranus and Neptune.
- Find a dark-sky location away from city lights.
- Check the weather forecast to ensure clear skies.
The cultural significance of planetary alignments
Beyond their visual spectacle, planetary alignments have long fascinated humanity. Throughout history, different civilizations have interpreted these celestial events as omens or prophetic signs. Today, they serve as powerful educational moments, offering a deeper understanding of planetary motion and our solar system’s dynamics. Events like these inspire curiosity and provide an opportunity to appreciate the vastness of the universe through the lens of modern science.
This spectacular planetary alignment is a once-in-a-lifetime event, making 28 February, 2025, a night to remember for astronomers and casual stargazers alike. Don’t miss the chance to witness one of the grandest shows the universe has to offer!
Article originally written in Spanish, translated with the assistance of AI and edited by Greg Heilman.
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