On the evening of 28th February 2025, skywatchers across the UK will have the chance to witness a spectacular celestial event—a rare seven-planet alignment. For one night only, Saturn, Mercury, Neptune, Venus, Uranus, Jupiter, and Mars will all be visible in the sky at the same time, forming a beautiful arc across the horizon. This rare phenomenon, known as a great planetary alignment, is a must-see event for both amateur stargazers and experienced astronomers.
In this guide, we’ll explain what planetary alignments are, why this one is special, and how to see it from the UK.
What Is a Planetary Alignment?
A planetary alignment occurs when multiple planets appear to line up in the sky from Earth’s perspective. These alignments happen because all the planets orbit the Sun on roughly the same plane, known as the ecliptic plane.
While small alignments featuring three to five planets occur every few years, a seven-planet alignment is exceptionally rare. The last time such an event happened was during the April 2024 total solar eclipse, and the next one isn’t expected until 2040.
Unlike a total solar eclipse, where celestial objects align perfectly, planetary alignments are more visual than physical—the planets appear in a row in the night sky, but they are still separated by millions or even billions of miles.
Why Is This Alignment Special?
- Seven planets visible at the same time – It’s rare to see this many planets in one go.
- Some of the brightest planets will be easy to see with the naked eye – Venus and Jupiter will shine brilliantly, while Mars will display its signature reddish hue.
- A perfect opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts – Whether you have a telescope or not, this event is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness a planetary lineup.
The next comparable alignment won’t happen again until 2040, making this a not-to-be-missed event.
How to See the Planetary Alignment from the UK
To make the most of this astronomical event, follow these tips:
1. When and Where to Look
- The alignment will be visible on the evening of 28th February 2025, just after sunset.
- The planets will form an arc across the western horizon, stretching from low on the horizon to high in the night sky.
- Mercury and Saturn will be closest to the horizon, while Jupiter and Mars will be higher up.
2. What You’ll Need to Observe It
- Naked Eye: You will easily see Venus, Jupiter, and Mars without any equipment.
- Binoculars: To spot Saturn and Mercury, binoculars will be helpful.
- Telescope: If you want to see Uranus and Neptune, a telescope is required, as they are too dim to be seen unaided.
3. Best Locations for Viewing
To get the clearest view, find a location with:
✔ Low light pollution – Rural areas or dark-sky reserves will offer the best visibility.
✔ A clear western horizon – Some planets will be close to the horizon, so an unobstructed view is essential.
✔ Good weather conditions – Check the local weather forecast for clear skies on the night of the event.
4. Timing and Weather Considerations
- The alignment is best seen 30–60 minutes after sunset, before Mercury and Saturn dip below the horizon.
- If the weather is cloudy, unfortunately, the event will not be visible. It’s best to check the forecast and choose a location with minimal cloud cover.
Which Planets Will Be Visible and How to Identify Them?
| Planet | Visibility in the UK | How to Spot It |
|---|---|---|
| Mercury | Low on the horizon | Difficult to see; look just after sunset |
| Venus | Very bright | The brightest object in the western sky |
| Mars | Reddish hue | Higher up in the sky |
| Jupiter | Very bright | Visible to the naked eye |
| Saturn | Near Mercury | Faint, requires binoculars |
| Uranus | Needs a telescope | Appears as a small greenish-blue dot |
| Neptune | Needs a telescope | Very faint, difficult to see |
Tips for Photographing the Planetary Alignment
If you want to capture this rare event, follow these photography tips:
- Use a tripod – A steady shot is essential for clear images.
- Use long exposure settings – This helps bring out the dimmer planets.
- Try a wide-angle lens – To capture the entire alignment in one frame.
- Take test shots – Adjust settings as needed based on lighting and location.
For the best results, use manual focus and set your ISO to a higher value (between 800 and 3200) depending on how much light is available.
The Science Behind Planetary Alignments
This planetary alignment happens because of the way the planets orbit the Sun. While they move at different speeds, occasionally, they reach a position where they appear to line up from Earth’s perspective.
Even though they seem close together in the sky, in reality, these planets are still millions or billions of miles apart. The alignment does not affect Earth’s gravity, tides, or weather—it is purely a visual spectacle.
The seven-planet alignment on 28th February 2025 is one of the most exciting astronomical events of the decade. It’s a rare opportunity to see multiple planets together in one night, and the fact that it won’t happen again until 2040 makes it even more special.
Mark your calendars, check the weather forecast, and prepare for a breathtaking night of stargazing. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or just love looking at the night sky, this is an event you won’t want to miss.