Jupiter will disappear behind the moon in a once-in-a-decade alignment tomorrow
Skywatchers in the U.S. and eastern Canada can see a rare lunar occultation of Jupiter early on Oct. 6. Here are the exact times to see the giant planet vanish and reappear.
On Tuesday morning (Oct. 6), observers throughout much of eastern North America will witness a celestial spectacle as the crescent moon passes directly in front of Jupiter. Known as a lunar occultation, this event will not occur again for 11 years. As the moon obscures the gas giant for up to an hour, it will vanish from view before reemerging, creating a captivating display.
The occultation will be visible before dawn from the eastern and central United States, Canada, the Caribbean, and certain regions of Africa, with the moon appearing as a waning crescent at 20% illumination and Jupiter shining brightly beside it. Rising together in the east, the moon and Jupiter will gradually converge, with Jupiter taking about a minute to disappear completely behind the moon as seen through a telescope.
Binoculars or a modest telescope are recommended to fully appreciate the event, which can also be photographed using a smart telescope. The next opportunity to witness a lunar occultation of Jupiter from North America will not arise until November 27, 2037.
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