Jupiter is currently transitioning out of the evening sky as it moves toward conjunction, a process that will render the planet invisible to Earth-based observers until mid-August. According to reports, the gas giant will reach conjunction with the sun on July 29, meaning it will be positioned behind the sun from our perspective. Skywatchers have a final narrow window this week to view the planet low in the west-northwest horizon shortly after sunset.
How to spot Jupiter before it vanishes
Visibility is limited as the planet sits low in the twilight glare. To catch a glimpse, observers should look toward the west-northwest horizon approximately 45 minutes after sunset. While the planet shines at a magnitude of –1.6, its proximity to the sun makes it difficult to spot without assistance. According to skywatching guidance, a pair of binoculars is highly recommended to locate the planet, which will appear below and to the right of bright Venus.
Why does Jupiter disappear from view?
The planet’s disappearance is a result of its orbit relative to Earth. Because Jupiter is moving toward conjunction, it is effectively being lost in the sun’s light. Once it passes this point on July 29, it will begin its transition into the morning sky. Astronomers expect the planet to return to the post-sunset evening sky by November, when it will appear in the east very close to Mars.
Upcoming milestones in planetary observation
The coming weeks offer a busy schedule for those tracking the solar system. Beyond the movement of Jupiter, the following events are on the calendar:
- July 11–12: Manhattanhenge occurs in New York City, with the sun aligning with the city’s street grid at 8:20 p.m. EDT on Saturday and 8:21 p.m. EDT on Sunday.
- July 14: A new moon provides the darkest skies of the month, just in time for the beginning of the annual Perseid meteor shower on July 17.
- August 26, 2027: The next Venus-Jupiter conjunction is scheduled to take place.
- November 22, 2065: According to Universe Today, Venus will occult Jupiter, marking the only such event of the 21st century.
Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system, with more than twice the mass of all the other planets combined. Despite its size, it features the shortest day in the solar system, completing a full rotation in just 10 hours.
Future missions to the Jovian system
While ground-based observation is currently limited by orbital mechanics, space agencies are increasing their focus on the planet. NASA’s Juno spacecraft has been in orbit around the planet since 2016, but two new missions are currently in transit. The NASA Europa Clipper mission is expected to arrive in 2030 to investigate whether the moon Europa may have conditions suitable for life. Following this, the European Space Agency’s JUICE mission is scheduled to arrive in 2031 to conduct flybys of Callisto and Europa before entering orbit around Ganymede.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Jupiter be visible again?
Jupiter will emerge into the morning sky in mid-August after its July 29 conjunction. It will not return to the evening sky until November.
Do I need a telescope to see Jupiter?
No, the planet is visible to the naked eye, though binoculars are recommended this week due to its low position in the twilight sky.
What is the next major event involving Jupiter?
The next significant alignment is the Venus-Jupiter conjunction on August 26, 2027, followed by a rare occultation in 2065.
Have you managed to spot Jupiter this week, or are you planning to track its return in the morning sky? Share your observations or questions in the comments below.
