Skywatchers in Michigan and across the globe are in for a celestial treat in 2026, with a rare Blue Moon, a prominent six-planet parade, and several meteor showers gracing the night skies. The year's astronomical highlights are set to offer numerous opportunities for stargazing. One of the most anticipated events is the six-planet parade, which will see Mercury, Venus, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus, and Jupiter align in the sky in late February 2026. This significant alignment is expected around February 28, offering visibility shortly after sunset. Four of these planets—Mercury, Venus, Saturn, and Jupiter—will be discernible to the naked eye. However, observers will need binoculars or a small telescope to spot the more distant Uranus and Neptune. The Moon, at approximately 90% brightness, will also be near Jupiter, enhancing the visual spectacle. This alignment is considered a major event, not expected to recur in this specific configuration until 2040. Additionally, 2026 will feature a Blue Moon on May 31. This phenomenon occurs when there are two full moons within a single calendar month, a relatively rare event happening roughly every two to three years. The term 'Blue Moon' refers to this calendrical rarity, not the Moon's actual color. Throughout the year, several meteor showers are also projected to provide dazzling displays. Key events include the Lyrids in April (peaking around April 22), the Eta Aquariids in May (around May 5-6), the Perseids in August (August 12-13), the Orionids in October (October 21-22), and the Geminids in December (December 13-14). These showers result from Earth passing through debris trails left by comets or asteroids, creating streaks of light as tiny particles burn up in the atmosphere. For optimal viewing of these celestial phenomena, locations away from city lights, such as Michigan's designated dark sky parks, are recommended.