Jupiter is set to shine brilliantly tonight as it makes its closest approach to Earth. This celestial event happens every 13 months, making the gas giant appear brighter and larger than usual. The phenomenon coincides with Jupiter’s opposition, when Earth is directly between Jupiter and the Sun, offering optimal visibility. The planet will rise in the east around sunset and remain visible throughout the night, reaching its peak around midnight.
Observers can spot Jupiter with the naked eye, but binoculars or a telescope will reveal its moons and atmospheric bands. Jupiter’s brightness, at a magnitude of -2.8, will outshine all stars in the night sky.
