Upcoming Conjunction of the Moon and Jupiter

Conjunction in astronomy refers to the apparent “joining” of celestial bodies in the sky. Although they are very far apart, they appear to come closer to each other to the observer on Earth, almost merging into one point. Conjunction occurs when both celestial bodies and the observer are in the same line, called the line of right ascension. The Moon and Jupiter are bright objects, so the conjunction of these bodies can be observed with the naked eye.

When will the conjunction of the Moon and Jupiter occur in 2024?

The conjunction of the Moon and Jupiter will take place on January 18th. The Moon will be more than half illuminated, and Jupiter will be visible around 4:30 PM. Observers will be able to witness the objects approaching each other until 9:40 PM. During this time, the celestial bodies will be only 2.1 degrees apart. They will then start moving away from each other and disappear below the horizon around 1 AM.

Interesting Astronomical Phenomena in January 2024

January 2024 is full of various interesting astronomical phenomena. In addition to the conjunction of the Moon and Jupiter, it is worth noting other encounters of the Moon with planets such as Mars, Saturn, Neptune, Uranus, and Mercury. Furthermore, on January 25th, there will be a full moon, and on January 29th, the closest approach of Comet 62P/Tsuchinshan to Earth can be observed through binoculars.

FAQ:

What is a conjunction in astronomy?
Conjunction is a phenomenon in the sky where celestial bodies appear to intertwine with each other, even though they are far apart.

When will the conjunction of the Moon and Jupiter occur in 2024?
The conjunction of the Moon and Jupiter will take place on January 18th.

What other interesting astronomical phenomena will occur in January 2024?
In January 2024, it is worth paying attention to the encounters of the Moon with the planets Mars, Saturn, Neptune, Uranus, and Mercury, as well as the full moon and the closest approach of Comet 62P/Tsuchinshan to Earth through binoculars.

Sources:
– pap.pl
– urania.edu.pl
– astronomia24.com
– bryk.pl