Posted: 21:00, 20 September 2022 | Updated: 22:03, 20 September 2022
Astrologers are in for a big treat when Jupiter makes its closest approach to Earth since 1963 on Monday afternoon. The giant planet, which will be 367 million miles from us at its closest point, reaches opposition next week. This simply means that the planet will rise in the east as the sun sets in the west – putting Jupiter and the sun on opposite sides of the Earth. The massive planet is about 600 million miles from Earth at its furthest point. Although a Jupiter opposition occurs every 13 months, this one is unique. Stargazers are very much on display as Jupiter makes its closest approach to Earth since 1963 on Monday afternoon. Above: This image of Jupiter, taken by the Hubble Space Telescope on June 27, 2019, shows the Great Red Spot, an Earth-sized storm that has been raging for hundreds of years This is because Earth and Jupiter do not orbit the Sun in perfect circles – meaning they pass each other at different distances during the year. Jupiter’s closest approach to Earth almost never coincides with opposition, meaning this year’s views will be “extraordinary,” according to NASA. Although Jupiter is one of the few planets that can be seen with the naked eye, NASA still recommends using some type of instrument. “With good binoculars, the belt (at least the central belt) and three or four of the Galilean satellites (moons) should be visible,” said Adam Kobelski, a research astrophysicist at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama. . statement. The giant planet, which will be 367 million miles from us at its closest point, reaches opposition next week. NASA recommends a pair of binoculars or a 4-inch telescope for the best view “Views should be great for a few days before and after September 26,” Kobelski explained. So take advantage of the good weather either side of this date to see the spectacle. Outside of the Moon, it should be one of (if not the) brightest object in the night sky.’ Above: As the Moon rose over the Wasatch Mountains near Salt Lake City on February 27, 2019, the planet Jupiter could be seen, along with three of its largest moons “It is important to remember that Galileo observed these moons with optics in the 17th century. One of the key needs will be a solid foundation for whatever system you use.’ A 4-inch or larger telescope would allow observers to see the Great Red Spot and Jupiter’s belts in greater detail. Kobelski said an ideal viewing spot would be at a high elevation in a dark and dry area. “Views should be great for a few days before and after September 26,” Kobelski explained. So take advantage of the good weather either side of this date to see the spectacle. Outside of the Moon, it should be one of (if not the) brightest object in the night sky.’ The US space agency notes that Jupiter has no fewer than 53 named moons, out of a total of 79 believed to have been identified, including the four largest: Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto. NASA’s Juno spacecraft has been orbiting Jupiter for six years – providing scientists with images and data of the giant planet’s atmosphere, structures and magnetic field ever since. Juno’s mission was recently extended until 2025, or the end of the spacecraft’s life. Europa Clipper, a spacecraft that will explore Jupiter’s moon known for its icy shell and vast ocean, is set to launch in October 2024 and reach Jupiter in April 2030.
