Jupiter Takes Center Stage In January 2026

As 2026 unfurls, the celestial stage is set for a spectacular display, with Jupiter taking center stage. On January 10, the gas giant will be at its most resplendent, a moment eagerly anticipated by skywatchers and astronomers alike. According to NASA’s latest forecast, this date marks Jupiter’s opposition, when Earth positions itself directly between the planet and the sun, rendering Jupiter bigger and brighter in the night sky than it will be all year.

Digital Trends reports that this alignment is a rare treat, making Jupiter a must-see for anyone fascinated by the night sky. But Jupiter’s brilliance is not the only wonder to behold in January. The moon, a constant companion, will be easily visible, and with a bit of effort, Saturn can be spotted just below, its faint glow a reminder of the vastness of the universe.

For those with a keen eye and a curiosity for the cosmos, January also offers a chance to witness the Beehive Cluster, also known as Messier 44 or M44. This open star cluster, first resolved into individual stars by Galileo in 1609, comprises at least 1,000 stars, a breathtaking sight that speaks to the awe-inspiring complexity of the universe.