Planets & Moons
There are 8 officially recognized Solar System planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Most of them, except Mercury and Venus, have their own natural satellites, commonly called “moons.” Some of the dwarf planets, like Pluto and Eris, have moons, too. Here, you’ll learn the best dates to observe planets in the sky and find everything you need to know about planets, dwarf planets, and natural satellites. When you learn enough, test your astronomy skills with our challenging quizzes!
Planetary Alignment in June 2026: Mercury, Venus & Jupiter After Sunset
Around June 12, 2026, Mercury, Venus, and Jupiter will align after sunset in a mini planet parade. Learn how to see the June 2026 planetary alignment.
Bright “Star” Next to Moon: What Planet Is Near the Moon Tonight?
What is that bright dot shining near the Moon tonight? Find out about stars and planets that can be seen next to our natural satellite this month!
What planets are visible tonight: Where to See Jupiter, Venus, Mars, Saturn & Mercury
See which planets are visible tonight, where to look, and when to spot Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn — updated regularly.
What Is Retrograde Motion? Which Planets Are Retrograde Right Now (June 2026)
Learn what retrograde means, see which planets are retrograde right now, and get an easy way to observe retrograde loops.
Fun Facts About Mercury: What Mercury Is Like and Its One-of-a-Kind Characteristics
All you need to know about Mercury: fun facts, color and size, temperature swings, day length, and practical tips to spot it in 2026.
All About Mars: Facts, Visibility, and Viewing Tips
Why does Mars look red? How big is it? Can you see it tonight? Discover Mars facts, get visibility tips, and learn about upcoming sky events.
Venus in the Sky: When and How to See the Brightest Planet
See when Venus is visible in 2026, how to find it in the sky, and why it shines so brightly. Learn key facts and upcoming events featuring Venus.
Neptune: The Farthest & Windiest Planet in the Solar System
How big is Neptune? What is Neptune made of? Why is Neptune blue? Read our article and learn curious facts about the outermost planet in the Solar System.
Jupiter Facts for Skywatchers: What Does Jupiter Look Like From Space and From Earth?
Get a clear picture of Jupiter: how it looks to the naked eye and with optics, when to see it in the sky in 2026, what it’s composed of, and what makes this gas giant special.
Where Is Saturn Tonight? How to Find Saturn and See Its Rings
Where is Saturn tonight? See when Saturn is visible, where to look in the sky, what it looks like to the naked eye, and how to find it from your location.