NAIROBI, Kenya — Stargazers across Kenya are being treated to a rare astronomical spectacle tonight, as six planets align in what astronomers call a planetary parade. The formation will be visible in the western sky shortly after sunset.
The Kenya Space Agency (KSA) confirmed on Twitter that Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune will appear together, creating a unique visual display for both enthusiasts and casual observers.
“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,’” KSA tweeted.
“This is one of the best evenings to observe them,” the agency added, urging the public to look toward the western horizon immediately after sunset.
A celestial classroom
KSA encouraged the public to use 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.
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The alignment provides both a visual spectacle and an educational opportunity, offering a real-time demonstration of planetary motion for amateur astronomers, students, and anyone with an interest in space.
While planetary parades are not unheard of, they are rare, and the current arrangement is particularly special. Though the planets will appear close together in the sky, they remain millions of kilometres apart in space.
KSA emphasized that this six-planet formation is unlikely to repeat in the near future, calling on Kenyans to take advantage of clear skies and witness the “remarkable alignment” of the solar system.
