Jupiter at opposition: A stellar sight awaits Bengalureans on Saturday

Bengaluru: Astronomy enthusiasts are in for a treat as Jupiter reaches opposition on December 7, making the gas giant shine brighter than usual.

This phenomenon occurs when Jupiter is directly opposite the Sun from Earth’s viewpoint, causing it to be fully illuminated and appear as a distinct disc in the sky.

According to the Planetary Society of India, opposition happens when the Sun, Earth, and the planet align in a straight line, with the planet at its closest approach to Earth. While the opposition itself lasts for just one day, the optimal viewing conditions can be observed for one to two weeks before and after the event.

Jupiter's opposition occurs once every 13 months, offering favourable conditions to observe the planet and its four largest moons — Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto. With a good pair of binoculars, these moons can be seen even with the naked eye during this period.