Six planets to align in rare celestial parade tonight in Kenya, Space Agency announces

Stargazers across Kenya are in for a celestial treat tonight as six planets are set to align in a rare planetary parade.

The spectacle will be visible in the western sky shortly after sunset, promising one of the most remarkable astronomical displays of the year.

The Kenya Space Agency (KSA) announced on Twitter that Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune will appear together, creating a stunning formation that enthusiasts and casual observers alike can enjoy.

"Tonight, Saturday, February 28, 2026, six planets will align in the western sky after sunset, creating a rare and spectacular celestial display. Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune will appear together in what is known as a “planetary parade.”

“This is one of the best evenings to observe them,” KSA tweeted, urging the public to look toward the western horizon immediately after sunset.

The event offers a unique opportunity for amateur astronomers and students to witness planetary motion in real time.

The agency advises using telescopes or astronomy applications, such as Stellarium, to enhance the viewing experience and accurately identify each planet.

"To enhance your viewing experience, use a telescope or astronomy apps such as Stellarium to help identify the planets and navigate the night sky with ease," the agency said.

The agency highlighted that the alignment provides not just a visual spectacle but also an educational opportunity for those interested in astronomy.

Planetary parades, while not unheard of, are rare occurrences. Such alignments involve planets appearing close together in the sky from Earth’s perspective, though they remain millions of kilometres apart in space.

According to KSA, tonight’s parade is particularly significant because six planets will be visible simultaneously, an arrangement that will not easily repeat in the coming years.

The Kenya Space Agency called on the public to take advantage of clear skies tonight and witness what it described as a “remarkable alignment” of our solar system’s planets, urging Kenyans to look up and experience the wonder of the universe.