Jupiter - NASA Science (original) (raw)
Facts About Jupiter
Jupiter is a world of extremes.
Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system. If Jupiter was a hollow shell, 1,000 Earths could fit inside. Jupiter also is the oldest planet, forming from the dust and gases left over from the Sun's formation 4.5 billion years ago. But it has the shortest day in the solar system, taking only 10.5 hours to spin around once on its axis.
Jupiter By The Numbers
How big is Jupiter? How far is it from the Sun?
Use this tool to compare Jupiter to Earth, and other planets.
Exploring Jupiter
The first detailed observations of Jupiter were made by Galileo Galilei in 1610 with a small, homemade telescope.
More recently, this planet has been studied by orbiters, probes, and spacecraft passing by on their way to other worlds. NASA’s Juno spacecraft currently is studying the giant planet from orbit. Europa Clipper will launch in October 2024 to study Jupiter's icy moon, Europa.
Learn More About Jupiter Missions
Moons of Jupiter
Jupiter has 95 moons that have been officially recognized by the International Astronomical Union.
But the number doesn't capture the complexity of the Jovian system of moons, rings and asteroids. The giant planet has thousands of small objects in its orbit.
Learn More About Jupiter's Moons
Jupiter Resources
Explore a curated collection of Jupiter resources.
These resources include activities that can be done at home, as well as videos, animations, posters, and online interactives. The activities are suitable for educators, students, and anyone interested in learning more about Jupiter.
exploring jupiter's ocean world
Launching Soon: Europa Clipper
NASA's Europa Clipper is launching Oct. 10, 2024, on the first mission to conduct a detailed science investigation of Jupiter's moon Europa.
Learn More About Europa Clipper
Europa clipper mission
#RunwayToJupiter Style Challenge
This October, NASA is launching Europa Clipper to explore Jupiter’s icy moon, Europa. Express your space style! Show off your outfits, makeup looks, nail art, and other creative expressions inspired by Jupiter's swirls, Europa's icy glam, and the exploration of the planets. Share your look with the hashtag #RunwayToJupiter for a chance to be featured on NASA’s website and social media channels.
picture an ocean world
Calling All Kids: Explore Europa Through Art
Join the NASA Space Place art challenge and imagine what's beneath the icy surface of Jupiter's moon Europa. Submit artwork by Sept. 30 for a chance to be featured by NASA!
Join the Space Place Art Challenge
Learn More
For Kids: All About Jupiter
Facts about Jupiter for kids.
Jupiter Resource Package
Activities that can be done at home, as well as videos, animations, posters, and online interactives.
NASA Photojournal: Jupiter
NASA database of images and videos of scientific interest.