Jupiter and Mars are set for a breathtaking close approach later this week: Here's how to see it

space.com Nov 9, 2026

Jupiter and Mars are set for a breathtaking close approach later this week: Here’s how to see it

Curated by Shubham · TechCapsules · Nov 9, 2026

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

Jupiter and Mars will appear side‑by‑side in the constellation Leo on 15 November, reaching their minimum apparent separation at 9:04 p.m. EST (0204 GMT). The pair will be below the horizon for most U.S. observers at that moment, but they rise above the eastern horizon around local midnight, offering a view of Jupiter just over one degree from the red disc of Mars. The bright star Regulus lies nearby, forming the head of Leo. Binoculars (10×50) can capture both planets in a single field, while a modest 4‑inch telescope will reveal Jupiter’s Great Red Spot in the predawn hours of 16 November, especially with a light‑green filter. The next similarly close alignment will not occur until July 2029. Enthusiasts can track it with free apps.

💡 Why It Matters

· The event provides a striking, easily observable illustration of planetary alignment that can draw new audiences to stargazing just before the next rare conjunction in 2029.

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