Stargazers are in for an extraordinary celestial event this February as all seven planets of our solar system align in a rare “planet parade.” While six planets—Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune—were already visible in January, Mercury will join the lineup on February 28, making this a breathtaking sight.
Planetary alignments occur when planets gather on the same side of the Sun, creating a stunning display in the night sky. According to astronomers, this is the last time such a perfect alignment will be visible until 2040. Witnessing planets with the naked eye is a humbling experience, as noted by UK-based astronomer Jenifer Millard, who encourages people to look up and take in the wonder of the universe.
Interestingly, this rare event coincides with India’s Maha Kumbh Mela, a deeply spiritual festival guided by planetary movements. This year’s alignment during the Purna Kumbh is particularly special, occurring once every 144 years.
Planetary alignments have also influenced space exploration. A similar event in 1977 enabled NASA’s Voyager missions to explore the outer planets. This upcoming alignment reminds us of the endless mysteries of the cosmos, waiting to be explored.
