Can’t you get enough shooting stars into the sky over the past few weeks? Then we have good news for you, because there will be another beautiful sight in the sky for the nights to come! Jupiter looks so big and shiny that you want to see it, of course. You can read in this article if the weather is also a bit favourable.
To be able to see the buyer, of course, must be clarified. Unfortunately, we’ve been dealing with a lot of cloud fields over the past few days and that will be the next night as well. Bright spot: it becomes clear from time to time between the cloud fields! Worth having a look outside during that clear spell. You have to be quick, because if the clouds pass again, it may be a while before Jupiter reappears. There will likely be more cleaning in the evening through Saturday, but the fog can disrupt work.
Read us for the latest predictions Extensive weather forecast in the Netherlands!
What exactly is Jupiter’s opposition?
During what is called Jupiter’s opposition, the Sun, Earth and Jupiter are aligned. This will take place on Friday, August 20 at around 2:30 p.m. Because Jupiter was relatively close to Earth at that time, the planet appeared larger and brighter than usual. Jupiter is recognized by the naked eye as a bright star that moves across the sky from east through south to west at night. So after sunset you have to look east to see Jupiter, in the morning to the west. Between 01:00 and 03:00, the planet is highest on the horizon and is best seen at that time.
By the way, Jupiter is not only going to be very big and bright for the next few nights, but also for a few more weeks. If you miss Jupiter’s opposition, you’ll have plenty of time to discover the largest planet in our solar system in the near future. Jupiter is gradually getting smaller and less bright. In addition, the best time to watch is late at night. In 399 days, at the end of September 2022, Jupiter’s next opposition will occur.
Jupiter is more beautiful with binoculars or stars
Jupiter can be seen with the naked eye, but with binoculars or a stargazer, the view of the large planet is better. With binoculars, you can find Jupiter’s four largest moons. And using a stargazer or telescope, you can even see planetary bands!
Jupiter is the so-called gas giant. The planet is mostly made of gas and has a solid core. Jupiter’s atmosphere is extremely turbulent with violent storms hitting its surface. The planet is famous for its red dot, a huge storm that has been seen for centuries.
Main image: NASA/Bill Dunford
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