Sharing is caring!

Skygazers across California have a rare celestial treat to anticipate this Friday, February 28, when a remarkable “planet parade” will grace our evening skies. The alignment will showcase all seven planets of our solar system (other than Earth) visible in a sequential arc across the night sky just after sunset, creating a unique viewing opportunity for astronomers and casual observers alike. 

For California residents, the viewing conditions should be particularly favorable thanks to typically clear February skies in many regions of the state. The planetary alignment will begin to appear shortly after sunset, with Mercury and Saturn being the first to emerge low on the western horizon, followed by Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune forming an arc across the sky. While most planets will be visible to the naked eye, having binoculars or a telescope will greatly enhance the experience, particularly for spotting Uranus and Neptune.

Those hoping to witness this spectacular planetary alignment should seek viewing locations with minimal light pollution and a clear view of the western horizon. Mountain viewpoints, beaches with westward exposure, and desert locations throughout California will offer prime observation opportunities for this celestial event. The next opportunity to witness a similar planetary parade won't occur until late August, though it will feature only four planets.

Where to See Parade of Planets in California: Best Viewing Spots for Spring 2025

Overview of The Parade of Planets

A rare celestial event known as the “planet parade” will occur on Friday, February 28, 2025, when all seven planets in our solar system beyond Earth will align in the night sky. This alignment includes Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune appearing simultaneously along a line called the ecliptic.

The planet parade happens when the orbits of these planets around the sun cause them to appear together from our vantage point on Earth. While the planets are always technically lined up in their orbital paths, we can't usually see them all at once from our perspective.

This astronomical phenomenon offers skywatchers a unique opportunity to observe multiple planets in a single viewing session. Each planet will be visible at different times throughout the night based on their position relative to Earth and the sun.

Some planets like Venus and Jupiter will be easily visible with the naked eye, appearing as bright points of light. Others like Uranus and Neptune will require binoculars or a telescope to spot clearly.

The alignment occurs because planets orbit the Sun along roughly the same plane, called the ecliptic. As they travel at different speeds, occasionally they line up on the same side of the Sun, creating this spectacular viewing opportunity.

For optimal viewing in California, the evening of Friday, February 28 will provide the best conditions to witness this remarkable alignment of celestial bodies.

Best Time to View the Planetary Alignment in California

The rare seven-planet parade will be visible in California on Friday, February 28, 2025, shortly after sunset. Mercury's recent addition to the alignment creates this spectacular celestial event featuring all seven of Earth's neighboring planets.

The ideal viewing time begins approximately 30 minutes after sunset, when the sky darkens enough to spot the planets. In Southern California, observers should look to the western horizon between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM PST.

Viewing Timeline:

• 6:00-6:30 PM: Begin watching as the sky darkens
• 6:30-7:00 PM: Prime viewing period
• 7:00-7:30 PM: Last opportunity before some planets set

Clear weather conditions are essential for optimal viewing. California's typically clear February skies make it an excellent location for witnessing this celestial alignment.

Some planets will be visible to the naked eye, including Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. Mercury may also be visible but could be challenging to spot due to its proximity to the horizon after sunset.

Neptune and Uranus require optical assistance to view. Observers should bring binoculars or telescopes to fully appreciate these distant planets as part of the complete alignment.

Finding a location with minimal light pollution and an unobstructed view of the western horizon will significantly improve the viewing experience. Higher elevations away from coastal fog offer the clearest views of this rare planetary parade.

Top Viewing Locations in California

California offers exceptional stargazing locations with minimal light pollution and clear atmospheric conditions perfect for observing the upcoming planetary alignment. These sites provide varying elevations, open horizons, and amenities that enhance the viewing experience.

Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles

Perched atop Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory provides an excellent vantage point for viewing the planetary alignment in an urban setting. The observatory's location at 1,134 feet elevation offers relatively clear views above the city's light pollution.

Public telescopes are available on the observatory grounds, and staff astronomers often host special events for astronomical phenomena. For the February 28, 2025 planet parade, visitors should arrive before sunset to secure a good viewing spot.

The observatory's western terrace is particularly recommended for this alignment, as planets will appear in sequence along the western horizon. Parking fills quickly during special astronomical events, so arriving early or using public transportation is advisable.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Located in San Diego County, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is one of California's premier dark sky locations. Its designation as an International Dark Sky Park makes it ideal for viewing celestial events with minimal light interference.

The park's vast open spaces provide unobstructed views of the horizon where the planetary alignment will be visible. Font's Point and Blair Valley are particularly recommended viewing areas within the park, offering elevated perspectives and easy accessibility.

Temperatures drop significantly at night in the desert, so viewers should bring warm clothing even in February. Park rangers recommend bringing binoculars or telescopes to enhance the experience, especially for spotting Mercury and Uranus, which will be more challenging to see with the naked eye.

Mount Shasta Region

Northern California's Mount Shasta area offers exceptional viewing opportunities at higher elevations. The reduced atmosphere and distance from major urban centers result in exceptionally clear night skies.

Castle Lake, at 5,450 feet elevation, provides an excellent location with its open lake surface creating a natural viewing platform toward the western horizon. The Bunny Flat trailhead (6,950 feet) offers another accessible high-elevation option with parking facilities.

February conditions in Mount Shasta often include snow, so visitors should check road conditions and bring appropriate winter gear. The alignment peaks around 8:30 pm on February 28, making early evening arrival recommended to set up equipment before darkness falls.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park combines otherworldly desert landscapes with some of the darkest skies in Southern California. Its location away from coastal fog and clouds makes it particularly reliable for astronomical observations.

Key viewing areas include Keys View (5,185 feet), which offers a commanding western vista, and Pinto Basin Road for its remote, dark conditions. The park's February planet alignment viewing is enhanced by typically clear winter weather.

The park hosts ranger-led night sky programs, though checking the event schedule before visiting is recommended. Visitors should note that February nights remain cold in the desert, and bringing chairs, red flashlights, and warm clothing will significantly improve the viewing experience.

Equipment for Planet Viewing

Selecting the right viewing equipment significantly enhances your experience of the upcoming planetary parade. While some planets will be visible to the naked eye, proper tools allow observers to see more distant celestial bodies.

Choosing the Right Telescope

For beginners interested in planet viewing, a 4-6 inch reflector telescope offers good value and sufficient magnification. Dobsonian mounts provide stability without the complexity of computerized systems, making them ideal for first-time stargazers.

More experienced viewers should consider Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes, which balance portability with light-gathering capability. For the upcoming alignment, a telescope with at least 70mm aperture will reveal Jupiter's bands and Saturn's rings clearly.

Recommended features:

• Focal length of 700mm or greater
• Sturdy tripod with minimal vibration
• 25mm and 10mm eyepieces for different magnifications
• Red-light flashlight for preserving night vision

When viewing Mercury and other planets close to the horizon, a telescope with good light pollution filters becomes essential.

Binoculars for Stargazing

Quality binoculars offer an excellent alternative to telescopes for viewing multiple planets simultaneously. For planetary observation, 10×50 binoculars strike an ideal balance between magnification and field of view without requiring a tripod.

The upcoming alignment spans a wide portion of the sky, making binoculars perfect for taking in several planets at once. Look for models with BAK-4 prisms and fully multi-coated optics for maximum light transmission.

Binoculars with image stabilization technology help eliminate hand tremors, particularly useful when trying to spot Uranus and Neptune, which require steady viewing. A binocular harness or tripod adapter prevents arm fatigue during extended observation sessions.

Best binoculars for planet viewing:

• 7×50 for widest field of view
• 10×50 for balanced magnification and brightness
• 12×60 for experienced users (tripod recommended)

Camera Settings for Astrophotography

Capturing the planetary alignment requires specific camera settings and equipment. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual mode capability attached to a sturdy tripod forms the foundation of good astrophotography.

For planetary imaging, use these settings as starting points:

• ISO: 800-1600
• Aperture: f/5.6 or wider
• Shutter speed: 10-30 seconds for wide field shots

A remote shutter release or timer function prevents camera shake. When photographing individual planets, a camera with a telephoto lens (200mm or longer) or connected to a telescope via T-adapter yields the best results.

For more advanced shooters, consider “stacking” multiple exposures using specialized software. This technique reduces noise and enhances detail in dimmer planets like Saturn, which may be difficult to see without optical aid.

Understanding Planetary Visibility

When observing a planetary alignment in California, several factors determine which planets observers can see. This February 2025 event features all seven of Earth's neighboring planets appearing simultaneously in the evening sky.

Not all planets will be equally visible during the alignment. Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn are typically visible to the naked eye, while Uranus and Neptune generally require optical aids like telescopes or binoculars.

Factors affecting planetary visibility:

• Brightness (magnitude)
• Atmospheric conditions
• Light pollution
• Proximity to the horizon
• Proximity to the sun

Venus and Jupiter rank as the brightest planets, making them easiest to spot even in areas with moderate light pollution. Mars appears as a distinctive reddish dot, while Saturn has a warm golden hue.

The seven-planet parade occurring this February presents different challenges for observers. Mercury, being closest to the sun, typically remains difficult to spot without the right conditions.

Timing plays a crucial role in planetary observations. The best viewing occurs shortly after sunset when the sky darkens but planets remain above the horizon. This February alignment is visible from California as the sun sets.

Clear skies away from city lights provide optimal viewing conditions. California's desert regions and mountain areas offer exceptional opportunities to witness this celestial event with minimal light interference.

Events and Workshops During the Parade of Planets

California's astronomers and science centers are organizing special activities to celebrate the rare seven-planet alignment on February 28, 2025. These events combine viewing opportunities with educational content for all ages across different venues throughout the state.

Astronomy Clubs and Viewing Parties

The Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles will host an extended evening session from 7 PM to midnight on February 28, featuring guided telescope access and expert astronomers to help visitors locate each planet in the rare planetary parade. Pre-registration is required due to expected high demand.

In San Diego, the Fleet Science Center has partnered with the San Diego Astronomy Association for a special viewing event at Balboa Park. They will provide high-powered telescopes specifically positioned to view Mercury and Saturn, which will be closely aligned on this date.

Northern California residents can join the Chabot Space & Science Center in Oakland for their “Seven Worlds” event. The center will set up viewing stations on their observation deck with each telescope dedicated to a different planet, allowing visitors to see all seven planets in one evening.

Educational Programs for Students

California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco is offering special planetarium shows titled “Planetary Alignment: Once in a Lifetime” throughout the week. These age-appropriate presentations explain the orbital mechanics that make such alignments possible.

Several school districts have arranged field trips to local observatories, with the Los Angeles Unified School Districtorganizing transportation for students to Mount Wilson Observatory for daytime educational sessions and evening viewing.

The Discovery Cube locations in Orange County and Los Angeles have developed hands-on workshops where students can build scale models of the solar system. These workshops include take-home materials for continued learning and viewing tips for the actual alignment night.

Expert Talks and Presentations

Caltech will host a series of public lectures by planetary scientists in the days leading up to the alignment. These talks will cover topics like planetary formation, recent space missions, and how alignments like the February 28 planet parade enhance our understanding of orbital dynamics.

The Lick Observatory near San Jose is offering a special ticketed event featuring Dr. Emily Levesque, a renowned astronomer who will discuss how planetary observations have evolved from ancient times to modern astronomy.

For those unable to attend in person, the Exploratorium in San Francisco will livestream the entire alignment with commentary from their staff astronomers. The stream will include close-up views of each planet and explanations of their unique characteristics, available on their website and social media channels.

Planning Your Viewing Trip

To best enjoy the seven-planet alignment occurring on February 28, 2025, careful planning is essential. California offers numerous excellent viewing locations away from city lights where observers can witness this rare astronomical event.

Optimal Timing: Plan to start viewing just after sunset. The event will be visible in the western sky, with some planets appearing shortly after dusk while others become visible as the sky darkens completely.

Equipment Recommendations:

• Binoculars or telescope
• Star chart or astronomy app
• Red flashlight (preserves night vision)
• Camera with tripod for photography
• Warm clothing (temperatures drop at night)

Mercury will be particularly challenging to spot, so optical aids are highly recommended. The distant planets will also require magnification to be properly appreciated.

Visitors should allow time for their eyes to adjust to darkness. Patience is key when stargazing, and comfortable seating will enhance the experience during longer observation periods.

California's variable February weather demands checking forecasts before traveling. Clear skies are essential for optimal viewing conditions, so flexibility with dates may be necessary.

For families with children, packing snacks and hot beverages will make the experience more enjoyable. Educational materials about the planets can also enhance understanding of what they're observing in the night sky.

Safety and Etiquette for Nighttime Observing

Proper preparation and respectful behavior are essential for successful planetary viewing experiences in California's dark sky locations. Safety measures and community etiquette help protect both observers and the natural environment.

Navigating Dark Sky Areas

Always inform someone about your observation location and expected return time when visiting remote dark sky sites. California's desert and mountain regions offer excellent viewing but require careful planning.

Bring essential safety equipment including flashlights with red filters to preserve night vision, extra batteries, first aid supplies, and warm clothing. Temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer months.

Use designated trails and observation areas to minimize environmental impact. Many popular viewing locations have parking areas and established paths specifically for stargazers.

Carry sufficient water and snacks, particularly in desert locations. Cell service may be limited, so consider bringing a paper map or downloading offline maps before your trip.

Observing Etiquette

Arrive before dark to set up equipment safely and become familiar with your surroundings. This preparation time allows your eyes to gradually adjust to darkening conditions.

Use only red lights after sunset to protect everyone's night vision. White light can disrupt the dark adaptation of fellow observers, requiring up to 30 minutes to readjust.

Keep noise to a minimum during observation sessions. Quiet conversation is acceptable, but loud music or shouting can ruin the experience for others enjoying the planetary parade.

If you're joining an organized event, follow the host's guidelines regarding equipment placement and movement. When photographing, be mindful that camera flashes and bright screens affect others' viewing experience.

Clean up thoroughly before leaving. The “leave no trace” principle is particularly important in California's fragile desert ecosystems where many prime viewing locations are found.

Impact of Weather on Viewing Conditions

Weather plays a crucial role in determining visibility for the upcoming planet parade on February 28, 2025. For California viewers, clear skies will be essential to spot all seven planets aligned in the night sky.

According to forecasts, conditions in California appear promising for this rare celestial event. A nearly new moon will present near ideal viewing conditions through February 28, enhancing visibility of the fainter planets.

Cloud cover remains the primary concern for observers. Even partial cloud coverage can obscure planets, particularly dimmer ones like Uranus and Neptune that require optical aids to view.

Best viewing conditions:

• Clear or partly cloudy skies
• Low humidity
• Minimal light pollution
• Low air pollution

Coastal areas may experience evening fog, which would significantly reduce visibility. Inland areas typically offer clearer viewing opportunities on winter evenings.

Temperature will affect comfort but not visibility. Viewers should dress appropriately for evening temperatures which can drop quickly in California's desert and mountain regions.

For optimal viewing, astronomers recommend facing the western horizon around 6 p.m. When selecting a viewing location, prioritize areas with an unobstructed view of the western sky where the planets will appear after sunset.

Light pollution significantly impacts viewing quality. Rural locations away from city lights will provide the best conditions for observing this rare alignment.

Photography Tips for Capturing the Parade of Planets

Photographing the planetary alignment requires some preparation and technique to capture these celestial bodies effectively. Currently, four of the brightest planets—Saturn, Venus, Jupiter, and Mars—are visible in the sky, creating a spectacular display for photographers.

When using a smartphone, remember to use the wide-angle lens to capture more planets together. This helps frame the entire alignment in one shot, which is especially important for such a rare astronomical event.

For more advanced photographers, a tripod is essential to prevent camera shake during long exposures. Setting up your equipment an hour after sunset provides optimal lighting conditions when the planets are most visible against the darkening sky.

Equipment Recommendations:

• DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings
• Wide-angle lens (14-24mm recommended)
• Sturdy tripod
• Remote shutter release
• Flashlight with red light (preserves night vision)

Proper camera settings make a significant difference in planetary photography. Start with these baseline settings:

Setting	Recommendation
ISO	800-1600
Aperture	f/2.8-f/4
Shutter Speed	10-20 seconds

Astrophotographer Josh Dury recently accomplished the rare feat of capturing all planets in one photo. He noted that Mercury, Saturn, and Neptune were particularly challenging due to their proximity to the sun.

Bring extra batteries as cold night air can drain them quickly. A star chart app on your phone can help identify which planets you're seeing and compose your shot accordingly.

Additional Resources and Guides

For those eager to witness the spectacular planet parade in California, several helpful resources can enhance the viewing experience.

Mobile Apps:

• Sky Guide
• Star Walk 2
• NASA App
• Stellarium

These applications help identify celestial bodies and provide real-time positioning of planets in the night sky.

Local astronomy clubs throughout California regularly host viewing events for special astronomical phenomena. Many organize guided experiences for the February planet alignment, offering telescopes and expert knowledge.

Essential Equipment:

• Binoculars (7×50 or 10×50)
• Red flashlight (preserves night vision)
• Comfortable chair
• Star charts

Remember that patience is key when stargazing. Allow at least 20 minutes for eyes to adjust to darkness for optimal viewing.

The National Park Service offers dedicated astronomy programs at Joshua Tree, Death Valley, and Yosemite. Their websites provide updated schedules for ranger-led astronomy programs coinciding with the planet parade.

For weather conditions specific to astronomical viewing, Clear Sky Chart and AccuWeather's Astronomy forecast provide detailed information about visibility, cloud cover, and atmospheric conditions for specific locations throughout California.

The 7-planet alignment viewing window is optimal between 7-8 PM in Northern California. Checking exact times for southern regions is advisable for the best experience.