For those who love gazing at the stars, February brings a rare celestial event. All seven planets in the solar system will align, creating a breathtaking view. This rare sight will peak on February 28, when Mercury joins the display. The next chance to see this won’t come until 2040.
A Spectacular Astronomical Display
Between January 21 and 29, six planets—Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune—aligned in the night sky. The highlight arrives on February 28, when Mercury completes the cosmic parade. Scientists say such a formation happens when planets gather on one side of the Sun.
Gerard van Belle from the Lowell Observatory explained the science behind the alignment. “When this occurs, we can spot several planets at once,” he told Space.com.
British astronomer Jenifer Millard described the event’s magic. “Looking at pictures is one thing, but seeing it yourself is different. It’s truly humbling,” she said.
A Cosmic Connection to the Maha Kumbh Mela
The alignment coincides with India’s Maha Kumbh Mela, the world’s biggest cultural gathering. The festival, recognised by UNESCO, runs for 45 days and ends on February 26. This year’s event holds special meaning, as a similar alignment happens once every 144 years.
Maha Kumbh’s timing is based on the positions of Jupiter, the Sun, and the Moon. The current planetary lineup adds an extra layer of spiritual significance to the event.
Alignments and Space Exploration
Planetary alignments have helped shape space exploration. In 1966, NASA scientist Gary Flandro discovered a rare formation of Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. This led to NASA’s 1977 Voyager mission, which visited all four planets in just 12 years instead of 30.
As February’s seven-planet alignment nears, astronomers and sky-watchers are preparing for the moment. The event reminds us of the beauty of space and our place in the universe.
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