Four-Planet Parade In April 2026: When And How To Watch In India
A rare four-planet parade featuring Saturn, Mars, Mercury, and Neptune is visible in India’s pre-dawn sky right now. It peaks today through April 21, making it an ideal time for observers in locations like Indore.
The alignment began around April 12 and runs through April 23, but the tightest grouping—within 2-3 degrees—occurs from April 16-21. Best viewing hits on April 18, 19, and 20, with April 20 offering the clearest naked-eye line-up of Mercury, Mars, and Saturn. Neptune stays faint throughout, needing binoculars or a telescope.
Viewing Times in India
Look east 45-60 minutes before local sunrise, around 4:30-5:45 AM IST depending on your city (earlier in eastern India, later westward). In Indore or central Madhya Pradesh, aim for 5:00-5:30 AM today, April 18. The window lasts about 30 minutes before dawn brightens the sky.
Choose spots with a clear eastern horizon like terraces, fields, or beaches away from city lights and obstructions. Apps such as Star Walk 2 or Sky Tonight help identify planets in real-time. Multiple mornings improve chances, as weather or slight shifts affect visibility—India’s position favors good views over higher northern latitudes.
