The end of February 2026 brings a unique combination of rare astronomical phenomena and key technological events. Residents of Europe are preparing to observe a parade of six planets, which will illuminate the night sky. Simultaneously, the eyes of the business world turn to Barcelona, where Mobile World Congress 2026 begins. Despite strike announcements, the Catalan capital ensures smooth transport for thousands of participants, showcasing the latest achievements in artificial intelligence and cleaning robotics.
Parade of six planets
Rare alignment of Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune visible at the turn of February and March.
Start of MWC 2026
World technology fair in Barcelona focuses on AI and robotics after the transport crisis was averted.
Energy and food prices
A drop in electricity prices was recorded in Spain, yet families still feel high costs of products in supermarkets.
The last weekend of February 2026 is marked by a fascination with science and modern technology. Astronomy enthusiasts in Poland, Spain, France, and Great Britain are preparing to observe a rare alignment of celestial bodies, commonly called a planetary parade. In the sky, six planets will align in a single line: Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Experts indicate that the best time for observation will be just before dawn, although binoculars or a telescope will be necessary to spot the dimmer Uranus and Neptune. This phenomenon, while visually spectacular, is the result of a purely geometric arrangement of planets in their orbits around the Sun. Conjunction phenomena and planetary alignments were already observed by ancient astronomers in Mesopotamia and Egypt, who attributed mystical significance to them. It was not until the 16th century, thanks to Nicolaus Copernicus's heliocentric theory, that humanity understood these to be natural consequences of the orbital motion of planets in the solar system. Concurrently, Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026 begins in Barcelona, the most important event in the telecommunications industry. This year's edition goes far beyond smartphone presentations, focusing on four pillars: artificial intelligence, 6G networks, sustainable development technologies, and modern robotics. Spanish media report on premieres of advanced cleaning devices by the brand Roborock, which use machine learning to optimize household work. The logistical situation in Barcelona has improved after the cancellation of the FGC train drivers' strike, guaranteeing smooth travel to the Fira Gran Via exhibition grounds. Participants must, however, remember changes in energy tariffs in Spain, where electricity prices in February show a downward trend, which is significant for the local economy serving the event. Mobile World Congress, organized by GSMA, has been held in Barcelona since 2006. It has transformed from a small industry conference into a powerful economic forum that generates hundreds of millions of euros in revenue for the Catalonia region each year. The public debate also revisits the topic of daylight saving time. Although February is ending, media remind us of the upcoming switch to summer time, which in 2026 will occur at the end of March. Questions arise as to whether the European Union will finally abandon clock changes, a move advocated for years on health and economic grounds. „¿Será la última vez que movamos las manecillas del reloj?” (Will this be the last time we move the clock hands?) — 20 minutos The overall social mood is complemented by reports on supermarket prices. Although inflation is statistically slowing, many families still feel the rising cost of living, which the media describe as an "economic carousel." The combination of all these threads—from distant planets to daily bills—creates a multidimensional picture of contemporary times, where scientific progress intertwines with everyday dilemmas.
Perspektywy mediów: Liberal media emphasize technological progress at MWC and the ecological aspects of abandoning clock changes. Conservative media focus on family living costs and the impact of energy prices on households.
Mentioned People
- Paolo Fox — Italian astrologer known for publishing popular horoscopes.