How to See This Week's Rare Seven Planet Alignment in California

Stargazers in California are in for a celestial treat this week, as a rare planetary alignment will light up the evening sky. On February 28, seven planets—Venus, Jupiter, Mars, Saturn, Mercury, Uranus, and Neptune—will appear along the same elliptic line, creating a spectacular “planet parade” that won’t occur again until 2040. Here’s how you can catch this mesmerizing cosmic event.

What Is a Planetary Alignment?

A planetary alignment occurs when multiple planets in our solar system appear to line up along the same elliptic path in the sky. According to NASA, while planetary alignments are not uncommon, seeing multiple planets align in a way that's visible to the naked eye is quite rare. The phenomenon is often called a “planet parade,” an informal term that describes the appearance of multiple planets in a straight line from our perspective on Earth.

In this instance, seven planets will align, marking one of the most spectacular astronomical events of the decade. Venus, Jupiter, and Mars will be visible to the naked eye, while Saturn and Mercury can be spotted if you have a clear view of the horizon. For more dedicated skywatchers with binoculars or a small telescope, Uranus and Neptune will also be visible.

When and Where to Watch in California

The planetary alignment has been ongoing for several weeks, but it will reach its peak on February 28, offering the best chance to see all seven planets in one night. The ideal time for viewing will be shortly after sunset, when the sky is dark enough to see the planets but before they dip below the horizon.

In California, the best viewing spots are areas with minimal light pollution and a clear, unobstructed view of the western horizon. Top stargazing locations include:

• Joshua Tree National Park – Renowned for its dark skies and open landscapes.
• Death Valley National Park – A designated International Dark Sky Park, perfect for celestial viewing.
• Big Sur – offers stunning ocean views and clear skies away from urban lights.
• Mount Tamalpais State Park – Just north of San Francisco, it provides elevated views above the city lights.

If you’re in a city, try to find a spot with a clear view of the western horizon, such as a rooftop or a beach facing the ocean.

How to Maximize Your Viewing Experience

To fully enjoy this celestial event, here are some helpful tips:

1. Check the Weather: Make sure skies are clear on February 28. Cloud cover can obstruct your view of the alignment.
2. Arrive Early: Get to your chosen spot before sunset to secure a good vantage point.
3. Use Binoculars or a Telescope: While three planets are visible to the naked eye, binoculars or a small telescope will enhance your experience, especially for spotting Uranus and Neptune.
4. Download a Stargazing App: Apps like SkyView or Star Walk 2 can help you locate the planets in real-time.
5. Bring a Camera: Capture long-exposure shots to preserve the beauty of this rare alignment.

Why This Event Is So Special

The last notable planetary alignment visible in California was a five-planet alignment in June 2022, followed by a six-planet alignment in August 2024. After this month’s event, the next significant alignment will be in August 2025, but only four planets will be visible. The next time all seven planets align in a way that they can be seen together will be in 2040.

This rare alignment presents a unique opportunity to witness a cosmic event that won’t repeat for another 15 years. Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or simply someone who enjoys the beauty of the night sky, this planetary parade is a must-see spectacle.

This week’s seven-planet alignment is an astronomical phenomenon that reminds us of the vastness and beauty of our solar system. Whether you’re watching from a national park or your backyard, take a moment to look up and marvel at the celestial dance unfolding above.