The year 2026 promises to be a real celebration for anyone interested in the night sky. This season is set to feature numerous spectacular planetary conjunctions, bright oppositions, and rare astronomical events. Both seasoned astronomers and beginners will have the chance to witness unique moments, from close approaches of planets to striking crescents of Venus and Mercury in the sky.
Mercury and Venus
Mercury remains the most elusive planet. From February 5 to 26, it will be visible above the western horizon after sunset. February 18 is especially notable, when Mercury will be just one degree away from the thin crescent Moon.
Venus will dominate the evening sky in 2026 from March to October, reaching peak brightness in September. On June 9, Venus and Jupiter will appear just one and a half degrees apart—a sight that will especially delight amateur astronomers. In telescopes, Venus will appear as a graceful crescent in September and November, offering a rare opportunity for astrophotographers.
Mars and Jupiter
In 2026, Mars will remain hidden in the Sun’s glare for most of the winter, becoming visible only by late March. Over the summer, it travels from Aquarius into Taurus, remaining dim, but autumn brings several striking conjunctions. On October 11, Mars will pass through the Beehive Cluster, and on November 26, it will be near Regulus, creating a contrast of red and blue light.
Since the start of the year, Jupiter has held a prominent place in the night sky. In January, it reaches opposition and shines in Gemini, then moves to Cancer and Leo during the summer. On October 6, the Moon will completely cover Jupiter for observers in North America and Cuba—a rare and spectacular event for any skywatcher.
Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune
In 2026, Saturn moves from Aquarius into Cetus, gradually revealing its rings and reaching peak brightness by October. In February, Saturn and Neptune will converge—a phenomenon visible only through telescopes.
Uranus remains in Taurus throughout the year. In July, it will be very close to Mars, and in November it reaches opposition, becoming visible even in binoculars. Neptune stays in Pisces and reaches its greatest brightness in September and October.
Best times for observation
Beginners are advised to start with Venus and Jupiter, which are easy to spot even in light-polluted cities. Mercury and Mars require patience and an open horizon. Binoculars can help you catch planetary alignments and passages through star clusters.
Noteworthy this year are Mars’ close approaches to bright stars and the lunar occultation of Jupiter. In October and November, several planets will appear in the same region of the sky—an uncommon treat for astronomy enthusiasts.
Expert opinion
Joe Rao is a renowned American astronomer and meteorologist who spent more than twenty years working in the Putnam Valley region of New York. He is a regular speaker at the Hayden Planetarium and publishes articles in leading scientific journals. His forecasts and skywatching advice are highly regarded by professionals and amateurs alike around the world.
