| 2020 Jul Oppositions: Jupiter & Saturn (2020-6-19) ⬅︎ |
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Jupiter and Saturn during Opposition, photographed from Starry Hill on July 14. (No, they weren't
actually
this close when photographed.)
On July 14, 2020, Earth will catch up to and pass Jupiter as they both orbit the sun. Since Jupiter will be at its
closest, it will appear larger and brighter making this the best time this year to view its banding, storms and
moons.
This time is known as opposition because Jupiter and the sun appear on opposite sides of our sky, 180°
apart. So, when the sun sets in the west, Jupiter rises in the east and is out all night. Opposition with Jupiter
occurs about every 13 months. The chart below lists oppositions until 2030, with Jupiter's distance, size and
brightness
for each.
On July 20, Earth will then catch up to and pass Saturn. Since Saturn will be at its closest, it will appear
larger and brighter making this the best time to view its rings, banding, and moons. Since Saturn is slower than
Jupiter, opposition occurs about every 12.5 months. The chart lists oppositions until 2029, with Saturn's distance,
size and brightness for each:
Since Saturn is close to being in opposition to Jupiter (Jupiter will be passing Saturn), both planets will be very
close in our sky making this a great time for viewing them together. Something not to miss!
Be sure to check out our Star Guide feature with its tools for knowing what's out each night and where to
look.
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