Moon in Conjunction with Jupiter: When and Where will Both Bodies be Visible in the Sky?

January nights bring us various fascinating astronomical phenomena, and one of them is the conjunction of the Moon with Jupiter. On January 18th at 21:10, the alignment of these two celestial bodies will take place. The Moon is slowly approaching fullness, and its crescent will be illuminated slightly over half. The conjunction of the Moon with Jupiter will be visible high above the southeastern horizon. The Moon will be visible earlier, around 16:30, and Jupiter will become noticeable a little later. Both bodies will disappear below the horizon around 1 AM.

What can we see in the sky?
The conjunction of the Moon with Jupiter is an extraordinary event, but it is worth noting that it is not the only conjunction in January. The next day, on January 19th, there will be a conjunction of the Moon with the planet Uranus. However, a telescope is necessary to see Uranus. On the other hand, Jupiter will be visible to the naked eye as a bright point of light. If we look at Jupiter through a telescope, we will be able to see its four moons and bands of clouds in its atmosphere.

How to observe such phenomena in the sky?
If you are interested in observing interesting astronomical phenomena, you have many options. You can visit a planetarium, which often offers sessions showing the view of the night sky at different times of the year. You can also follow information on thematic websites and planetariums’ pages, where notes about the most interesting astronomical phenomena in a given month are regularly published. There are also many computer programs and mobile applications that allow tracking celestial events, such as the free Stellarium. Additionally, you can use astronomical calendars that present various phenomena in the sky. The Polish Astronomical Society has published the “Astronomical Almanac for the Year 2024” available online as an e-book, which includes a complete compilation of events for the entire year.

FAQ

What is a conjunction?
A conjunction is an astronomical phenomenon in which two celestial bodies are in line of sight from Earth.

How can I see Jupiter and the Moon in the sky?
Jupiter and the Moon will be visible high above the southeastern horizon. The Moon will be visible earlier, around 16:30, and Jupiter will become noticeable a little later.

Do I need a telescope to see Jupiter and Uranus?
Jupiter will be visible to the naked eye, but a telescope is needed to see Uranus.

Where can I find information about other astronomical phenomena in the sky?
You can search for information about various astronomical phenomena on thematic websites, planetarium pages, computer programs, and mobile applications designed for this purpose. You can also use astronomical calendars or the “Astronomical Almanac for the Year,” which provides a complete compilation of events for the entire year.

Source: naukawpolsce.pap.pl