Jupiter So Close To Earth This Month Its Largest Moons Will Be Visible With Binoculars

• Jupiter will get so close to Earth this month that its largest moons will be visible with binoculars.
• NASA shared the specific date for it to peak.

Jupiter, the solar system’s largest planet, is approaching its closest point to Earth in 2019. According to NASA, the planet will be at “its biggest and brightest this month, rising at dusk and remaining visible all night.”

NASA advises that a pair of binoculars should give you a great look at Jupiter. But if you happen to have a hobby telescope handy you’ll get an even better look at the gas giant.

Although that’s when Jupiter is closest to Earth, the entire month, it will be most visible on June 10.

NASA said in their website:

“Jupiter is at its biggest and brightest this month, rising at dusk and remaining visible all night. The solar system’s largest planet is a brilliant jewel to the naked eye but looks fantastic through binoculars or a small telescope, which will allow you to spot the four largest moons, and maybe even glimpse a hint of the banded clouds that encircle the planet.”

The space agency advises that you should head to an area that doesn’t have a lot of buildings or street lights, to get a much clearer view.

Scientists believe the planet has a total of 79 moons. Fifty-three have been named while 26 have yet to be officially named.

NASA added:

“In the middle of the month, from about June 14th to the 19th, look for the Moon to form a beautiful lineup in the sky with Jupiter and Saturn that changes each night as the Moon moves in its orbit around Earth.

While you’re out marveling this trio, there’s a really neat astronomy observation you can attempt yourself, just by paying attention to the Moon’s movement from night to night.”