Jupiter is the fifth planet from the Sun and the largest in the Solar System. It is a gas giant with a mass more than 2.5 times that of all the other planets in the Solar System combined.
The outer atmosphere is divided into a series of latitudinal bands, with turbulence and storms along their interacting boundaries; the most obvious result of this is the Great Red Spot, a giant storm that has been recorded since 1831.
Jupiter's magnetic field is the strongest and second-largest contiguous structure in the Solar System. Its magnetosphere deflects solar wind and radiation, reducing the amount that reaches the inner planets, including Earth. Jupiter's immense gravity and magnetic influence pull in or deflect comets and asteroids, reducing the risk of impacts on Earth. The Shoemaker-Levy 9 comet impact in 1994 was a perfect example of Jupiter absorbing a dangerous celestial object. It also helps maintain orbital stability in the solar system by influencing asteroid belts and planetary orbits, preventing chaotic movements that could threaten Earth and the Goldilocks Zone. Jupiter is therefore like a cosmic bodyguard, using its magnetic field and gravity to protect the inner planets—including Earth—from excessive radiation, space debris, and harmful cosmic influences.
At least 95 moons orbit the planet; the four largest moons—Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto—orbit within the magnetosphere and were discovered by Galileo Galilei in 1610. Ganymede, the largest of the four, is larger than the planet Mercury.
Since 1973, Jupiter has been visited by nine robotic probes.
Jovian is an adjective describing Jupiter or any of the large gas planets.
In the future, refineries could be used for extracting energy from Jupiter, and floating habitats could be built to house workers and visitors.
News[]
- April 2023 - Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer is launched to study Ganymede, Europa and Callisto.
- October 2024 - Europa Clipper is launched to conduct a detailed study of Jupiter's moon Europa