A rare celestial event, known as the “planet parade,” will be visible to the naked eye on Monday, August 18. This phenomenon occurs when four planets – Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, and Uranus – are aligned in the sky before sunrise. Although gas giants Neptune and Saturn will also be visible, they won’t be easily seen without telescopes.
The highlight of the “planet parade” is the rise of Mercury, making it a worthwhile morning to wake up early. A 26%-lit waning crescent moon will shine above Jupiter and Venus in the eastern sky about an hour before sunrise. The brightest planet, Venus, will be followed by Jupiter, with the crescent moon visible above them. Mercury, the smallest planet, will be easiest to spot closer to sunrise.
The next impressive “planet parade” won’t occur until October 2028, when five planets will align together again before sunrise. If you miss this week’s event, Wednesday, August 20, offers a great alternative with a slim crescent moon close to Venus and Jupiter.
On Tuesday, August 19, the waning crescent moon will appear closer to Jupiter and Venus as it reaches its “Earthshine” phase. This phenomenon occurs when sunlight is reflected onto the lunar surface by Earth’s ice caps, oceans, and clouds. Mercury will be at its apparent farthest from the sun on this day, making it a good opportunity to spot it.
Look for familiar stars like Orion, which will be visible in the sky as you gaze at the “planet parade.” The iconic constellation is easily recognizable due to its distinctive belt shape and bright stars Betelgeuse and Rigel.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamiecartereurope/2025/08/17/planet-parade-on-monday-when-and-where-to-see-it-by-a-crescent-moon