Space
Jupiter to be visible to the naked eye from Earth: When and how to look for the giant planet
Jupiter, the largest planet in the solar system, will be visible to sky gazers on Earth. Here’s when to look out for it and how to find it in the night sky.
One of the planets in the solar system that generates a lot of curiosity is Jupiter, the fifth in order of proximity to the sun.
The gas giant is the largest planet in our system and its volume is 1,321 times greater than that of the Earth.
On Saturday, Dec. 7, you’ll have the chance to see it in all its splendor without needing to use a telescope.
Jupiter will be one of the brightest objects in the night sky on this day. This opportunity occurs approximately every 13 months and is an ideal occasion not only for astronomy fans, but also for anyone who wants to enjoy the best possible view that the skies offer us of the giant of our solar system.
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The reason why Jupiter is visible to the naked eye from Earth
The oldest planet in the entire solar system remains a great mystery to astronomers. It’s older than the sun itself, a fact discovered by researchers at the University of Münster in Germany.
You’ll be able to see Jupiter with your own eyes on Saturday because of a phenomenon known as opposition. This occurs every 400 days, during which the planet’s orbit with respect to the Sun reaches its closest point to Earth, with our planet aligning itself between the gas giant and the Sun.
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How to see Jupiter in the night sky
To locate the planet on Dec. 7 you will first have to look at the stars, and focus on the Taurus constellation, where the opposition will pass through.
Due to the light reflected by the Sun, you will be able to see the planet when reaches its brightest point as it rises in the northeast when the sun sets, even with the naked eye.
According to NASA, using binoculars is the best way to look at Jupiter, and if you have access to a telescope, you may even be able to see its Great Red Spot.
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