Star treat for curious as Jupiter lines up

Jupiter usually appears as a bright star in the sky but members of the public were able to see the planet in detail during a UAE Space Agency event on the Abu Dhabi corniche.

ABU DHABI // The largest planet in our solar system looked even bigger as Jupiter made its closest approach to Earth this year.

The gas giant, which could fit 1,300 Earths inside, usually appears as a bright star but members of the public were able to see the planet in detail during a UAE Space Agency event on the Abu Dhabi Corniche.

From a distance of 666 million kilometres, members of the public viewed Jupiter’s rings, clouds and some of its 67 moons through a telescope at the event.

It was held on Saturday in collaboration with the International Astronomical Centre and included lectures by prominent local astronomers, physicists and space industry experts.

Jupiter is aligned with the Earth and the Sun in a phenomenon known as an “opposition”, providing ideal viewing opportunities.

Dr Mohammed Al Ahbabi, director general of the UAE Space Agency, said the event helped to raise public awareness of astronomy, which is central to creating interest in space science.

“The turnout is very encouraging and we’re grateful to all the astronomers and groups who helped bring this year’s Jupiter opposition to the public,” he said.

Groups taking part included the Emirates Astronomical Society and the New York University Abu Dhabi astronomy club.