This August, there's a date with the sky you shouldn't miss. A rare and visually striking astronomical phenomenon is about to happen, and this time it will be visible from many places around the world. We're not talking about eclipses or auroras, but something even more unusual.
During that morning, the sky will offer a scene that's hard to repeat: six planets aligned in the same portion of the sky. These types of conjunctions, known as "planetary alignments," don't happen every year and, when they do, they're not always visible to the naked eye. This time, however, four of the six celestial bodies will be observable without the need for telescopes or binoculars.
A unique stellar encounter
Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune will share space in the sky, in a kind of stellar parade that seems choreographed. While Uranus and Neptune will require optical aid, the other four will shine brightly enough to be seen without special equipment. The ideal thing is to start observing about one hour before sunrise, when there's still enough darkness and the sky offers its best stage.
The full moon will also be present, joining the show with its impressive brightness. However, the moon's glow may make it difficult to see Neptune, which is especially faint. To easily identify each planet, it's recommended to use the free app Star Walk 2, which allows you to track the position of celestial bodies in real time from anywhere on the planet.
In addition to the planetary alignment, the Perseids, one of the most active and well-known meteor showers of the year, will reach their peak those nights. While you watch the planets, it's likely you'll see shooting stars crossing the sky. This double show makes the experience a unique and unforgettable event.
Exact date and places where it will be visible
The specific date when this planetary alignment will occur is August 10, right in the middle of the summer season. The best time to observe it will be in the hour before sunrise, when the sky is still dark, but the planets have already begun to appear. At that moment, the show will reach its peak: six different worlds sharing the same sky.
This phenomenon will be visible from much of the planet, although there will be differences depending on geographic location. Places like London, Berlin, Athens, New York, or Mexico City will enjoy optimal conditions to see the alignment. However, the clearer the eastern horizon is and the less artificial light there is, the better the experience will be.
The most striking thing about this alignment isn't just its beauty, but its rarity. To find a similar configuration, you'll have to wait until the end of February 2026. Even so, the visibility conditions won't be as favorable as those this August.
Tips for a perfect observation
To fully enjoy this event, it's essential to choose a place with low light pollution and a clear view. An open field, a rooftop without obstacles, or wide spaces will be ideal for observation. You don't need to be an expert or have specialized equipment, just pay attention to admire the sky.
August 10 is shaping up to be a memorable date for astronomy and sky observation enthusiasts. The coincidence of a six-planet alignment with the meteor shower promises an exceptional show. An unusual event that makes this day an unmissable date to mark on the calendar.