Now is the time to view Jupiter
1 May 2017, 10:26 UTC
Jupiter is the brilliant 'star' that is currently dominating the evening sky, outshining all other celestial objects except the Moon. The largest planet in the Solar System, Jupiter is on the Top 10 viewing list for every backyard astronomer because it is easy to find and offers such richness when viewed with magnification, and of course it is dazzling whether viewed from the darkness of a country setting or the bright lights of an urban setting. And having just passed opposition in early April, Jupiter is well positioned for viewing shortly after sunset and is above the horizon nearly the entire night; being just past opposition also means that Jupiter presents the greatest surface area for viewing. A casual glance toward the south-east in the evening is all you need to find Jupiter.