Jupiter, Mercury, Mars, Uranus, Saturn and Neptune will form a six-planet alignment across the eastern sky in Alaska before sunrise on Wednesday, August 12. The celestial event features the planets distributed along the ecliptic, the apparent path of the Sun, rather than lined up in a single straight row in space.
Stargazers will need to wake up early, find an unobstructed view facing east and avoid artificial light sources to see the display. Mars and Saturn offer the easiest viewing targets for the public, while Uranus and Neptune require optical gear.
Viewing times for Anchorage and Fairbanks
The optimal viewing window begins between 30 and 60 minutes before local sunrise. Light conditions and sunrise times vary significantly across Alaska because of the state's large size and August sunlight patterns.
In Anchorage, where sunrise is expected around 5:59 a.m. Alaska Daylight Time (AKDT), the best viewing time runs from approximately 4:59 a.m. to 5:29 a.m. In Fairbanks, sunrise occurs near 5:24 a.m., placing the recommended viewing window between 4:24 a.m. and 4:54 a.m. Observers in Fairbanks should set up early due to the earlier dawn.
These times serve as a practical guide. Actual visibility will depend on cloud cover, haze, local terrain and light pollution in the viewing area.
Locating the planets on the eastern horizon
Observers in Alaska should look toward the eastern horizon before dawn. From that point, the planetary alignment extends upward into higher sections of the sky and moves toward the southwest along the path of the planets.
Skywatchers can begin by locating the lowest point on the eastern horizon where Mercury and Jupiter will appear, although both planets will compete with the rising morning light. Looking higher into the sky reveals the remaining planets in the sequence.
Ideal viewing locations include lookouts with open views, coastal areas, rural zones, parks away from bright lights and safe roadside spots facing east. Observers in Anchorage should seek out areas with minimal urban lighting and no mountains blocking the horizon, while open locations outside the city center work best in Fairbanks.
Required equipment and viewing tips
Mars and Saturn are the most realistic targets for casual viewers without special equipment. Mercury may be visible for only a few minutes, while Jupiter sits even lower on the horizon. Spotting Uranus requires binoculars, and Neptune demands a telescope because of its faint brightness.
Planetary viewers should arrive at their chosen spot at least 15 minutes before the viewing window opens. This extra time allows eyes to adapt to the darkness and gives observers time to scan the horizon without rushing.
Observers should bring binoculars, warm clothing and an astronomy application to help locate celestial positions. Binoculars and telescopes must never be used once the Sun begins to rise or has appeared above the horizon, as looking directly at the Sun through optics causes severe eye injury.
Moon conditions and partial solar eclipse
Viewing conditions are helped by the new Moon on August 12, which ensures little to no moonlight interference during early morning hours. In addition to the predawn planetary parade, Alaska will experience a partial solar eclipse later on August 12, with notable coverage visible in Fairbanks and Anchorage.
