The Guwahati Planetarium has unveiled a special celestial treat for astronomy enthusiasts and city residents. In anticipation of Jupiter's planetary opposition, the planetarium will host a unique sky-watching programme spanning several evenings, offering a rare chance to see the gas giant in stunning detail.
A Celestial Alignment Brings Jupiter Closer
While the official planetary opposition is scheduled for January 10, the planet will be at its closest point to Earth on January 9. Babul Chandra Bora, the Consulting Scientific Officer at Guwahati Planetarium, explained the phenomenon. He stated that on this day, the Sun, Earth, and Jupiter will align perfectly. This alignment places Jupiter opposite the Sun in our sky, causing it to rise at sunset, shine all night long, and set at sunrise.
This configuration means Jupiter is fully illuminated by the Sun, making it appear significantly brighter and larger than usual. Bora noted that this year, the massive planet will be approximately 633 million kilometres away from Earth during this close approach.
Special Viewing Sessions with New Telescopes
The planetarium has organized live viewing sessions to capitalize on this astronomical event. The programme will run from January 9 to January 12, each evening between 6 pm and 7 pm. Attendees will get a privileged view not just of Jupiter, but also of its four largest moons, known as the Galilean moons.
"We have three new telescopes that offer better viewing," Bora added, promising enhanced clarity for participants. He also revealed that during the same viewing window, other fascinating objects will be visible. Saturn with its iconic rings will also be in sight through the powerful telescopes, making for a spectacular double feature in the night sky.
Understanding Planetary Opposition
Bora elaborated on the science behind the event. A planetary opposition occurs when Earth moves directly between the Sun and an outer planet. This happens with Jupiter roughly every 13 months. However, the exact distance of closest approach varies each time because both Earth and Jupiter travel in slightly elliptical, not perfectly circular, orbits around the Sun.
This makes each opposition a slightly unique event. The Guwahati Planetarium's initiative provides a guided and equipped opportunity for the public to engage with this regular yet awe-inspiring cosmic dance, turning complex astronomy into an accessible and memorable experience for all ages.
