In Roman mythology Jupiter is King of the Gods. For much of the summer, Jupiter is the brightest and easiest planet to spot in the sky, making it king for us.

 

Jupiter reaches opposition on Monday, making it closer to the Earth than at any other time in the year. Astronomers estimate the planet is 399 million miles away. You’ll find it hugging the southeastern sky, soon after sunset.

 

There is no mistaking Jupiter if you look around 9 p.m. or later. Jupiter rises in the east around sunset and it sets in the west at sunrise. For those with binoculars or a small-powered telescope, you might be able to see any one or more of the planet’s four brightest moons.

 

Jupiter is in the southern most zodiacal constellation Scorpius. Jupiter will remain the most dominant planet in our evening sky through the summer.

The full moon moves along side Jupiter on Monday, June 17.