Observed Jupiter for First Time

[Codz]

It was amazing. I saw some cloud bands and the Galilean moons. Absolutely spectacular.

[Codz]

Does anybody have any suggestions for observing Jupiter later on?

[michael.h.f.wilkinson]

As it approaches, more detail will become apparent. Furthermore, you will be able to observe it for more hours each night, and observe the rotation, Jupiter has a 9-10h day. You will see changes in the cloud belts, storms such as the Great Red Spot, white oval spots, and dark areas. Jupiter is the most dynamic planet to observe.

[Stargazer Jack]

What will I see in my SW Explorer 130M? Will I need any filters?

[michael.h.f.wilkinson]

I have seen a lot of detail even with a 70mm achromat we had at school. A 130mm should show quite a bit of detail (a friend of mine used a simple 4.5" F/8 to great effect on Jupiter). I have never used filters for Jupiter, though some people suggest using green.

[Stargazer Jack]

Thanks for the advice. I will have a look the next time it is up

[Pete Presland]

well done,its great 2nd only to saturn!

[Space Cadet USA]

Saturn is beautiful but Jupiter is more dynamic. I am really looking forward to it rising at a reasonable hour in the not too distant future...

[mag10]

Jupiter's the one for me.

Saturn has all the glory, but Jupiter is so much bigger, and I never get tired of the nightly dance of the galilean moons.

Observing advice?

Plan an observing session whem Io transits. Seeing a moon's shadow on another world is a kick and a half!

[Telrad]

Jupiter is thrilling to view. I'm hoping to get some viewing of this wonderful planet when the skies clear. Congratulations Codz!

[vegaandarctures]

I plan to observe Jupiter someone this week but im afraid the tree's might block my view

[SoulFrenzy]

Awesome!! I cant wait to view Jupiter for the first time. With out traveling to a dark site early in the morning (or staying up late), I will have to wait. I have pine trees to the east of my house that block it early in the morning.

[stolenfeather]

It is indeed spectacular!

Isabelle

[Essex Stargazer]

Sounds amazing , well done

I am yet to see it myself

[brantuk]

In a well collimated 130p newt in good seeing, jupiter is very crisp with a good quality 5mm eyepiece - something like a 5mm radian or hyperion does it for me at 130x.

[Moonshane]

Jupiter is stunning and I agree with Kim, in the UK (not that I have really observed it anywhere else!) I have found between 125x and 150x is best as it seems to 'dislike' high magnifications. Occasionally more but usually the image degrades a little.

I find the Baader Neodymium filter enhances detail a little.