The “planet parade” is a rare astronomical event where five planets are visible to the naked eye in the night sky. The lineup includes Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. While Mercury has been elusive for many years, it will be at its farthest distance from the sun on March 7, making it easier to spot.
The “planet parade” is a treat for stargazers, with bright and beautiful planets like Venus, Jupiter, and Mars visible from almost anywhere. However, Mercury’s visibility is limited due to its proximity to the sun. To make up for this, the Fleischmann Planetarium staff will be hosting virtual telescope sessions and small-group stargazing events.
Northern Nevada has plenty of dark-sky destinations to witness the “planet parade”. Some popular spots include Fort Churchill State Park, Pyramid Lake, and Lake Tahoe. For those looking to minimize light pollution, neighborhoods like Cold Springs or Hidden Valley are also suitable options.
Before attempting to spot the planets, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast. Cloudy skies are expected for the next few days, but should clear up just in time for Friday night. As for stargazing tips, the Fleischmann Planetarium staff recommends using free astronomy apps like SkyView Lite or Star Walk 2.
By heading out on March 7, viewers can witness one of the most elusive planets, Mercury, join the “planet parade” in an exciting way. Mark your calendars and get ready to enjoy this rare astronomical event.
Source: https://eu.rgj.com/story/news/local/2025/03/04/planet-parade-2025-data-time/81171409007