The planet’s four largest moons—Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto—are called Galilean satellites because Galileo discovered them in 1610. On September 26, these Galillean satellites can also be observed, visible as bright dots on either side of the planet.
NASA announced, Jupiter is set to make its closest approach to earth in the last 59 years on September 26. Stargazers can be intrigued to know as Jupiter is about to flash its mesmerizing views. Jupier is the biggest planet in our solar system so it might enhance viewer’s experience.
Here is how the Phenomenon is happening To begin with, Jupiter will be in opposition from the point of view of Earth on September 26. “Opposition” is when an astronomical object rises in the East as the Sun sets on the west. In this case, Jupiter and the Sun will be on opposite sides of Earth. Jupiter’s opposition with Earth happens once every 13 months but on September 26, opposition coincides with the time when Jupiter will be closest to Earth since 1969.
Jupiter is approximately 965 killometres away from our planet but during this time the gas giant will be approximately 590 killometres nearby. It’s important to remember that Galileo observed these moons with 17th-century optics. One of the key needs will be a stable mount for whatever system you use,” said Adam Kobelski, a research astrophysicist at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, in a press statement.
To increase your chances to see gas giant’s red spot. Kobelski recommends a larger telescope, around four inches or larger. Scientist have found a total of 79 Jovian moons but know about only 53. The planet’s four largest moons—Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto are called Galilean satellites because Galileo discovered them in 1610. On September 26, these Galillean satellites can also be observed, visible as bright dots on either side of the planet.