This weekend, on Feb. 28, we’ll have the chance to see something really cool happen in the night sky.Some of the planets in our solar system will look like they are lining up in a row. This is called a planetary alignment or a “planet parade.” What does “lining up” mean?The planets won’t technically be “lining up.” However, from Earth, they will look like they are in a straight line across the sky. It’s only like this for us on Earth. Which planets can we see?NASA says we will be able to see six planets:MercuryVenus JupiterSaturnUranusNeptune Do you need special viewing equipment?No, but some planets will require a telescope or binoculars.Venus, Jupiter, Saturn and possibly Mercury can be seen with the naked eye. Binoculars or a telescope are needed to see Uranus and Neptune.When can you see it?Experts say 30 minutes after sunset, looking toward the west. What time is sunset in Louisville on Feb. 28? The sun will set at 6:35 p.m. So the best viewing window is 7:05 p.m. to 7:35 p.m.What will the weather be like?There could be some clouds in the sky Saturday. But keep up with the latest forecast:See the latest forecast here.Will it be visible any other day?While this will be the best day for viewing, it could be visible into early March.When is the next one? The next one is in April, but only four planets will align.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. —
This weekend, on Feb. 28, we’ll have the chance to see something really cool happen in the night sky.
Some of the planets in our solar system will look like they are lining up in a row. This is called a planetary alignment or a “planet parade.”
What does “lining up” mean?
The planets won’t technically be “lining up.” However, from Earth, they will look like they are in a straight line across the sky. It’s only like this for us on Earth.
Which planets can we see?
NASA says we will be able to see six planets:
MercuryVenus JupiterSaturnUranusNeptune
Do you need special viewing equipment?
No, but some planets will require a telescope or binoculars.
Venus, Jupiter, Saturn and possibly Mercury can be seen with the naked eye.
Binoculars or a telescope are needed to see Uranus and Neptune.
When can you see it?
Experts say 30 minutes after sunset, looking toward the west.
What time is sunset in Louisville on Feb. 28?
The sun will set at 6:35 p.m. So the best viewing window is 7:05 p.m. to 7:35 p.m.
What will the weather be like?
There could be some clouds in the sky Saturday. But keep up with the latest forecast:
Will it be visible any other day?
While this will be the best day for viewing, it could be visible into early March.
When is the next one?
The next one is in April, but only four planets will align.