This week we’re looking up — because Australia is about to witness two spectacular sky events.

Astronomer David Reneke joins us to unpack a rare planetary line-up on February 28, when Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune will appear stretched across the evening sky in a striking “planet parade.” What does alignment really mean? Are the planets actually close together? And why have these events sparked anxiety throughout history?

Then we turn to March 3–4, when a total lunar eclipse — the so-called “blood moon” — will glow deep red above Australia. David explains the precise celestial geometry behind the colour change, why it’s completely safe to watch, and what makes this particular eclipse such a shared national moment.

Two events. One week. No omens — just remarkable orbital mechanics and a reminder that we live in a busy, beautifully predictable solar system.

Step outside, look up, and listen in.