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JUPITER
Jupiter is our solar system’s largest planet. Through your binocs,
you can easily see the planet and observe the changing positions
of its four largest moons: Io, Callisto, Europa, and Ganymede.
With the right conditions, you may be able to see cloud bands
wrapped around the planet and the famous Great Red Spot.
SATURN
This infamously ringed planet can be a fantastic sight through
your binoculars. The tilt-angle of the rings varies over a period
of many years, so they may be seen edge-on (like a thin line) or
broadside (like giant “ears” on each side of the planet). You will
need a good steady atmosphere to achieve a worthwhile view
of Saturn. If you look closely enough, you can see the Cassini
division - a thin, dark gap in the rings. You can also often make
out one or more of Saturns moons, including the largest - Titan.
VENUS
At its brightest, Venus is the most luminous of all the planets - so
bright that it is occasionally visible in full daylight. Venus appears
as only a thin crescent at its brightest, and it is never found far
from morning or evening horizon. No surface detail can be seen
on Venus as it is surrounded by dense cloud cover.
MARS
Mars makes a close approach to our planet once every two
years, which is the best time to observe it. With your binoculars,
you’ll be able to see a salmon-colored disk marked with dark
patches and possibly a whitish polar ice cap. Surface detail on
Mars is only observable during prime conditions with a high-
power magnification.
COOL VIEWS WITH YOUR
ZHUMELL ASTRONOMICAL BINOCULARS