Witness Jupiter In Opposition On 7 Dec 2024 In Singapore

If you’ve ever wanted to see our solar system’s largest planet up close, this Saturday (7 Dec) might be your best chance until 2026! Get ready to witness Jupiter in opposition, which is when Jupiter will be at its biggest and brightest as viewed from Earth.

Jupiter Pixabay Image credit: Pixabay

Jupiter will begin rising around 6pm and should be at an easily appreciable height at around 7pm in Singapore, or when the sky is dark. Jupiter will reach its highest point in the sky at midnight local time.

About planet oppositions

1. What is a planet opposition?

In our Solar System, opposition occurs when Earth lies directly between the Sun and another planet/planetary body, forming an imaginary straight line connecting all three.

About the upcoming Jupiter in opposition

1. What is Jupiter in opposition?

Jupiter in opposition is an astronomical event that occurs when Earth passes directly between Jupiter and the Sun. This alignment makes Jupiter appear larger and brighter in the night sky than at any other time of the year.

2. When will Jupiter in opposition be visible?

Jupiter will begin rising around 6pm on 7 December and should be at an easily appreciable height at around 7pm onwards in Singapore, or when the sky is dark. Jupiter will reach its highest point in the sky at around midnight local time.

3. Where is the best place to view Jupiter when it is in opposition?

Jupiter in opposition should be easily visible anywhere in Singapore as long as the skies are clear. For an unobstructed and potentially elevated view of Jupiter with panoramic views of the city skyline, visit open public areas like the Marina Barrage, East Coast Park, and the Southern Ridges.

4. Can Jupiter in opposition be viewed with the naked eye?

Yes! Jupiter in opposition can be viewed with the naked eye. It will appear as a very bright, steady point of light in the eastern night sky. However, it’s worth noting that its appearance can vary depending on atmospheric conditions, clear skies and your specific location.

But do not be confused with the bright dot in the western sky, as that is another bright planet, Venus.

5. When is the next Jupiter in opposition?

Due to Jupiter’s orbit, there will not be an opposition in 2025. Instead, the next Jupiter in opposition will be taking place on 10 January 2026. Opposition of Jupiter occurs roughly every 13 months.

6. Will the Science Centre Observatory (SCOB) hold a viewing session for Jupiter in opposition?

SCOB will not be holding a viewing session for this opposition. The Observatory is closed in December due to expected poor weather. We will open again in January 2025.

Contributed by Science Centre Observatory.

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