This coming Friday, February 20, 2026, a rare astronomical phenomenon of the 'meeting' of Saturn and Neptune will occur. The last time these two planets were in such close angular proximity was in 1989. While Saturn will be visible to the naked eye, optical equipment will be necessary to spot Neptune. This event is merely a prelude to the culminating parade of six planets in the Solar System, which we will be able to observe at the end of the month.
Conjunction After Decades
The approach of Saturn and Neptune occurs once every approximately 36 years. The last time these planets were this close was in 1989.
Optical Equipment Required
While Saturn is visible to the naked eye, to see Neptune, a telescope or good binoculars will be necessary.
Parade of Six Planets
Already on February 28, 2026, six planets will appear in the sky in a parade alignment, crowning the series of astronomical phenomena.
On Friday, February 20, 2026, astronomy enthusiasts will be able to admire an extraordinary geometric phenomenon. The conjunction of Saturn and Neptune is a cyclical event, occurring on average once every 35-36 years. The previous such approach took place in 1989, while the current one is exceptional because it occurs at the First Point of Aries, last recorded in 1702. The exact moment of maximum approach is forecast for 17:52. Historically, conjunctions of major outer planets, such as Saturn and Neptune, aroused fear or hope for great social changes, but modern science treats them solely as a fascinating spectacle of celestial perspective. Observers must remember the differences in brightness of both bodies. While Saturn, the planet known for its rings, will remain visible to the naked eye as a bright point, the distant Neptune, billions of kilometers away, requires the use of at least binoculars or a telescope. This phenomenon is not the only attraction in February. Already on February 28, a so-called planetary parade will occur, during which as many as six Solar System objects will align in a similar direction in the sky. Although observing conditions may be difficult due to their low position above the horizon, this is one of the most interesting astronomical moments of 2026. The first documented observations of planetary conjunctions date back to the Babylonian civilization, which based on the movements of celestial bodies created advanced agricultural and religious calendars. It is worth noting that the planetary approach is merely a visual effect resulting from their orbital arrangement relative to Earth. In reality, both gas giants are separated by a distance measured in billions of kilometers. For many commentators, especially from circles dealing with celestial symbolism, this 'meeting' of Saturn (symbol of discipline) and Neptune (symbol of dreams) has a breakthrough dimension, suggesting the need to verify illusions and firmly plant one's feet on the ground. Regardless of interpretations, February 2026 will be recorded as an exceptional time for sky observers in Poland and worldwide.