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This planet to be closest to the Earth in 70 years

(Image Credit Google)
Jupiter is once more moving towards Earth, more than two years after Saturn and it aligned with Earth in a rare planetary conjunction. Later this month, the largest planet in the solar system will hang over the skies as it makes its closest approach to the Earth in nearly 70 years. When Jupiter reaches opposition on September 26, the entire night will be spent being visible in the sky. The Sun and an astronomical object are on opposite sides of the Earth as seen from our home planet when the object rises in the east and sets in the west. This is known as the planet's opposition. Since this will be Jupiter's closest approach to Earth in 70 years, this opposition is unique. This occurs as a result of the two planets' different orbits around the Sun. Both Jupiter and Earth do not orbit the Sun in complete circles. It implies that throughout the course of the year, the planets will pass one another at varying distances. On Monday, Jupiter will be nearly 58 crore kilometers from us at its closest approach, while it is 96 crore kilometers distant at its furthest. According to a NASA update, "Jupiter's closest approach to Earth seldom coincides with opposition, so this year's views will be exceptional."Jupiter

HOW TO SEE JUPITER IN THE NIGHT SKY?

Even though the planet will be closest to Earth at that time, the enormous distance separating us from it will make it difficult for us to view it with our bare eyes. A telescope, however, can help extend the field of vision and sharpen the planet's outline. Find a higher location with a clear sky if you can for best viewing. “With good binoculars, the banding (at least the central band) and three or four of the Galilean satellites (moons) should be visible. 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,” Adam Kobelski, a research astrophysicist at Nasa, said in a blog update. The astrophysicists in a blog also recommend using a four-inch-or-larger telescope and some filters in the green to the blue range to see Jupiter’s Great Red Spot and bands in more detail. “The views should be great for a few days before and after September 26. So, take advantage of good weather on either side of this date to take in the sight. Outside of the Moon, it should be one of the (if not the) brightest objects in the night sky,” he added.

By Awanish Kumar

I keep abreast of the latest technological developments to bring you unfiltered information about gadgets.

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