You’ll want to keep your eyes on the sky this June! There’s a celestial phenomenon happening soon and it’s been dubbed a “planet parade.” Read on for the details, head someplace dark in Maryland, and look up — viewing this planetary alignment belongs on your summer bucket list.

If you have a favorite place to view the stars in Maryland, you’ll want to head there this June. With very little light pollution, Assateague Island is a local favorite for stargazing…

Michael Ver Sprill / Getty Images

…or consider heading someplace rural, or perhaps someplace by the bay.

Erik Drost / Flickr

Find a cozy spot and look up. The planets Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn will line up in order from the sun in our sky. Variations of this sight can be viewed throughout the month, but you’ll get an especially good chance at viewing it around June 24th.

Sky & Telescope illustration

The last time we were able to see this configuration was in 2004, so this is a rare sight that you certainly don’t see every year. Mark your calendar and plan accordingly.

Rob Pettengill / Flickr

Learn more about this celestial phenomenon at space.com.

Jim Pennucci / Flickr

  • Keep in mind that you can view this planetary alignment with the naked eye if you’re in a dark enough spot. If not, you may want to consider a telescope.

Speaking of natural phenomena in Maryland, you’ll want to add this local overlook to your bucket list. It’s full of beauty and is reminiscent if Pride Rock from The Lion King!

Michael Ver Sprill / Getty Images

Erik Drost / Flickr

Sky & Telescope illustration

Rob Pettengill / Flickr

Jim Pennucci / Flickr

  • Keep in mind that you can view this planetary alignment with the naked eye if you’re in a dark enough spot. If not, you may want to consider a telescope.

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