On January 10, 2026, the main event is Jupiter reaching opposition, making it closest, brightest, and visible all night, rising at sunset and setting at sunrise, with its Galilean moons visible in binoculars, alongside other planets like Venus, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune in the evening sky, offering excellent viewing opportunities for a “planetary parade” with the naked eye for Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars.
Key Celestial Events on January 10, 2026
  • Planetary Parade: A gathering of several planets, with Venus and Saturn prominent in the southwest, Jupiter overhead, and Mars in the east after sunset, creating a beautiful celestial display.
  • Moons of Jupiter: With binoculars, you can spot Jupiter’s four largest moons (Io, Europa, Ganymede, Callisto) as tiny dots near the planet.
  • Uranus & Neptune: These icy giants will also be in the sky but require a telescope for observation, with Uranus near Jupiter and Neptune near Venus and Saturn.

How to See It

  • Look East at Sunset: Jupiter will rise in the east as the sky darkens, shining brighter than any other “star”.All Night Viewing: Jupiter will climb high and stay visible until sunrise in the west.
  • Binoculars/Telescope: Essential for Jupiter’s moons and Uranus/Neptune.

This opposition is the best chance to see Jupiter at its finest until 2027, making it a prime night for stargazers.

 

 

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