Catch Jupiter glowing under the waxing moon on Feb. 26
Space.com
by Joe Rao February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Catch Jupiter glowing under the waxing moon on Feb. 26 for a stunning celestial display. That evening, stargazers will be treated to a close encounter between the bright, silvery planet Jupiter and a waxing gibbous moon in the east-southeast sky, about an hour after sunset. The two objects will appear just over six degrees apart—roughly the width of your clenched fist held at arm's length—creating a striking visual pairing that’s sure to captivate casual observers and astronomy enthusiasts alike.
Jupiter, currently shining brightly in the constellation Gemini, will be visible high in the sky and free from obstructions like trees and buildings. The planet, which is at its best for evening viewing this time of year, will reach its highest point around 8:30 p.m., making it a prime target for observation. For those with binoculars or telescopes, Jupiter’s disk offers a wealth of detail, including its cloud belts and the four Galilean moons visible as tiny points of light.
Amateur astronomers can also catch a glimpse of Jupiter’s dynamic features, such as its shrinking Great Red Spot, which has shown unexpected behavior like oscillations. While larger telescopes are best for detailed views, even small binoculars or steady-eyed observations will reveal the planet’s bright moons and its impressive size. If clouds obscure your view on Feb. 26, don’t worry—Jupiter and the moon will reunite on March 26, offering another chance to witness this celestial spectacle.
This event is a reminder of the beauty and accessibility of the night sky, providing an opportunity for anyone with curiosity to look up and connect with the cosmos. For those interested in space, it’s a perfect example of how planets
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Originally published on Space.com on 2/25/2026