Morning planet Jupiter rises around 03:00 BST (02:00 UT) at the start of July 2024, when it can be seen among the stars of Taurus, not too far from the beautiful Pleiades open cluster.
However, the relatively short nights work against the planet at the start of July, the dawn twilight already bright by the time the planet makes its presence known above the northeast horizon.
Read our guide on how to observe Jupiter through a telescope
Jupiter highlights for July 2024
A 9%-lit waning crescent Moon sits 4.6° northwest of Jupiter on the morning of 3 July, an attractive sight if you have clear skies.
As July 2024 rolls on, the position of Jupiter gradually improves and by 31 July, shining at mag. –2.0, the planet reaches an altitude of around 22° above the eastern horizon under relatively dark skies.
The Moon revisits Jupiter on 31 July, its 19%-lit waning crescent sitting 5° north of the planet in the early hours. On this date, Jupiter will be visible from around 01:30 BST (00:30 UT)
Throughout the month, mag. +0.9 Mars can be seen sneaking up on Jupiter from the west.
On 1 July, Mars sits 22.2° west of Jupiter in Aries, but by 31 July, the separation will be just 7.3°, Mars having moved into a position north of the Hyades open cluster.
Jupiter is a rewarding planet to view through a telescope, but for the best detail it’s best to wait for it to climb to its highest altitude.
Consequently, the best views of Jupiter will be had in July 2024 at the end of the month, heralding a rapid improvement in the planet’s circumstances in the weeks and months ahead.
Specifically, its placement against the stars of Taurus, with Mars and Uranus nearby, provides something of an early morning spectacle.
Quick guide
- Best time to see: 31 July, 03:20 BST (02:20 UT)
- Altitude: 16°
- Location: Taurus
- Direction: East-northeast
- Features: Complex atmosphere, brighter moons
- Recommended equipment: 75mm scope or larger
This guide appeared in the July 2024 issue of BBC Sky at Night Magazine