Stargazers can spot seven planets in the night sky at the same time - but two are tricky to see

Stargazing enthusiasts across Britain are in for a treat as a rare planetary alignment graces the night sky starting tonight. Up to seven planets from our solar system could be on display simultaneously, although spotting two of them might require a bit more effort.

Over the next month, Mars, Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn will be clearly visible to the naked eye during this 'planetary parade', accompanied by the Moon's glow. Those with telescopes or binoculars can also catch a glimpse of Uranus and Neptune, which will show up as green-blue dots.

Mercury is set to join the lineup later in February. This stunning astronomical event has already begun and will continue throughout the month, with optimal viewing expected earlier rather than later.

British astrophotographer Josh Dury managed to capture the phenomenon from a prime location atop the Mendip Hills in Somerset and shared some advice with the BBC for capturing the best images. He enthused: "Now is a really exciting time to look up at the night sky. The bright planets will certainly be visible like Venus, Jupiter, Saturn and Mars. For the dimmer planets, Uranus and Neptune, you may want to use a pair of binoculars or a small telescope to see those."

A planetary parade, the term used by astronomers to describe a close gathering of planets on one side at the same time, is set to offer a rare spectacle in the last week of February. This unusual line-up will include Mercury along with six other planets, making it a seven-planet alignment visible in the sky, reports the Mirror.

Sky-watchers should make the most of this opportunity as the next similar event isn't expected until 2040.