Astronomy enthusiasts across the globe were treated to a remarkable planetary parade between February 26-27, 2025, when five planets aligned in a stunning celestial display. The planets Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn formed a visible alignment in the western sky shortly after sunset, providing an extraordinary opportunity for skywatchers to witness this rare astronomical occurrence. In Maryland, local astronomy clubs organized events to help the public view the planetary parade through telescopes, as well as providing educational resources for those interested in learning more about the planets. According to NASA, these alignments are not common as planets typically orbit around the Sun in varying planes, making such perfect alignments rare. As Robert McMillan from the Goddard Space Flight Center stated, ‘This is a special event, and we encourage everyone to take a few moments to step outside and enjoy the beauty of our solar system.’ He noted that the best viewing conditions occurred during twilight when the planets were most visible. The alignment was visible across much of the United States, with particularly clear conditions reported in states like Maryland, allowing residents to fully engage with this stunning natural phenomenon. As interest in astronomy continues to grow, events like this serve to strengthen the connection between the public and the wonders of space.
Spectacular Planet Parade Graces the Skies in Late February 2025
