Tonight is a special night for skywatchers around the world. Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system, is making its closest approach to Earth, offering its brightest and clearest appearance of the entire year.
When Jupiter reaches this point—known as opposition—it rises at sunset, shines brilliantly throughout the night, and sets at sunrise. Its distance from Earth is minimized, making the planet appear larger and more luminous than usual, even to the naked eye.
No telescope is required to enjoy this event. Simply step outside after dark and look for the brightest “star” in the sky—it won’t twinkle like stars do, because it’s a planet. If you have binoculars, you may even spot Jupiter’s four Galilean moons lined up beside it.
Miss tonight, and you’ll have to wait many months for a view this good again.