Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
World
Claire Galloway

Stargazers in Edinburgh could have the chance to see Jupiter and its moons this week

Edinburgh stargazers could catch a rare glimpse of Jupiter and its moons in the skies this week.

Jupiter will be in opposition - this means Earth will be directly in between the planet and the Sun - which makes for a front row viewing experience.

Experts at NASA said the planet will be at its closest point to Earth in its orbital cycle - 398 million miles away.

Astronomical enthusiasts will also be delighted to know that it will be 11 million miles closer to us than it was during last year's opposition - meaning you may not need specialist equipment to see it.

However for optimal viewing you will want to grab a pair of binoculars to get a good look at our solar system's largest planet and four of its 79 moons: Lo, Europa, Callisto and Ganymede.

While last night was tipped as the best night for seeing the exciting cosmic event, it is still set to be visible this week.

According to NASA, Jupiter will be "at its biggest and brightest this month, rising at dusk and remaining visible all night".

Ideally you are looking for clear conditions and a place that is away from built-up areas and light pollution.

This cosmic occurrence only happens every 13 months so don't miss your chance to get out there and see what you can spot.

To receive one WhatsApp message a day with Edinburgh Live's headlines, as well as breaking news alerts, text NEWS to 07899067815. Then add the number to your contacts as 'Edinburgh Live'.

For more stories from across the Edinburgh area like our  Facebook page , or follow us on  Twitter  and  Instagram .

You can also subscribe to our newsletter: enter your email in the blue box at the top of this article.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.