What gear do you need to see February’s 'planetary parade’ in 2026?
Space.com
by Jamie Carter February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The upcoming "planetary parade" in February 2026 will feature six of Earth's neighboring planets—Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune, and Uranus—all aligning in the evening sky. While only two of these planets (Venus and Jupiter) will be easily visible to the naked eye, the others will require specialized tools for observation. This event offers a unique opportunity for stargazers to gather multiple planets in one view, but the right gear is essential to make the most of it.
For casual observers, binoculars with 7x to 10x magnification and an aperture of 42mm or 50mm are ideal. These specifications provide a wide field of view, making it easier to spot dimmer planets like Mercury and Saturn in bright twilight. Image-stabilized binoculars can also help reduce hand shake, allowing for clearer views of fainter objects like Uranus. For those seeking closer-up details, telescopes are the way to go. A six-inch telescope can reveal Saturn's rings and Jupiter's cloud bands, while larger apertures offer even more detail, making it easier to spot Neptune and Uranus.
Photographers looking to capture this celestial event should aim for wide-angle shots to include multiple planets in a single frame. However, the low position of the planets near the western horizon will make long exposures challenging, so patience and planning are key. The event's rarity and visual appeal make it a must-see for astronomy enthusiasts, offering a rare chance to witness such a planetary alignment in one evening.
This "planetary parade" is more than just a scientific curiosity—it's a reminder of the beauty and complexity of our solar
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Originally published on Space.com on 2/26/2026