Six Planets in One Sky: Příbram’s Celestial Event – Viewing Guide

The planets will be visible shortly after sunset, approximately between 18:30 and 19:30, depending on local conditions. Venus and Jupiter will be the brightest, while Uranus and Neptune will only be visible with binoculars or high-quality binoculars.

Why does it look like they are “in line”

This is not the actual alignment of the planets in space, but an optical effect. All the planets orbit the Sun in one plane – the ecliptic. When they are projected in the sky close to each other from our point of view, the impression of a “planetary parade” is created. It is a phenomenon that appears only occasionally and belongs to the most interesting phenomena of 2026.

How to observe the phenomenon
It is best to choose a place with an open view of the western horizon and as little light smog as possible. Any high place, meadow or edge of the city, where the street lights do not interfere, is suitable. A clear sky and an undisturbed horizon are important.

What we need to observe

• Just eyes: Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn
• Grader or telescope: Uranus, Neptune
• Warm clothes: February is usually cold
• Patience: some planets will be low on the horizon

When exactly to go

The ideal time is about an hour after sunset, when the sky is already quite dark, but the planets have not yet fallen too low. In the Czech Republic, the sun sets on February 28 around 5:45 p.m., so the best viewing window is 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Why is it special?

Planetary shows do appear, but six planets at once is still a rarity. Astronomers point out that this is one of the most interesting phenomena of 2026 – and moreover, visible even without special technology.