These planetary encounters occur when several planets appear to align in the night sky at the same time. They are not in a straight line, but they are close to one side of the sun.

The astronomical connection is quite common and can happen at least once a year, depending on the number of planets, according to the Associated Press (AP).

A parade of four or five naked-eye planets happens every few years, according to NASA.

A similar parade took place in June, but only two planets could be seen without any special equipment.

Six planets were visible in January — four to the naked eye — and now a faint Mercury joins the group.

This month, Venus, Mars and Jupiter are visible to the naked eye. Saturn and Mercury are close to the horizon, making them difficult to see. Uranus and Neptune can be seen with binoculars and telescopes.

The planets will shine brighter than the stars, and Mars will appear as an orange-red dot. Stargazing apps can help you choose where to look.