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3 Jupiter Moons Perform Celestial Shadow Dance Next Week

Jupiter's Moons Triple Shadow Transit of June 3, 2014

In this computer simulation, three of Jupiter’s moons cast their shadows on the face of Jupiter as they will appear on the afternoon of June 3.
Credit: Starry Night Software

Three of Jupiter’s moons will cast their dark shadows on the face of the giant planet Tuesday (June 3), but you might need a computer in order to see it.

Most owners of small telescopes enjoy watching the dance of Jupiter’s four largest moons, first observed by Galileo in 1609. As these moons circle Jupiter, they often pass in front of the giant planet, casting their tiny shadows on its face. Although these shadows are very small, they are also intensely black, appearing like tiny drops of ink on the bright surface of Jupiter’s cloud deck.

via 3 Jupiter Moons Perform Celestial Shadow Dance Next Week.