Yecheon Astronomy and Space Center Resumes "Jupiter Public Observation"... Galilean Moons to Shine in the Winter Night Sky

One-Hour Event on the Night of the 24th
Limited to 40 Participants via Naver Reservation on a First-Come, First-Served Basis

The Yecheon Astronomy and Space Center in North Gyeongsang Province will reopen its "Jupiter Public Observation" event, which was previously canceled due to adverse weather conditions, thanks to strong public support. This event offers a rare opportunity to observe Jupiter, which is currently closest to Earth in the winter night sky, and is expected to once again attract those interested in science and cultural experiences.

The Yecheon Astronomy and Space Center announced that the "2026 Jupiter Public Observation" will be held on January 24 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the center's observatory grounds.

Yecheon Astronomy and Space Center Jupiter Public Observation Event Reopens

This event was originally planned for January 10, coinciding with Jupiter's opposition, but was canceled due to inclement weather. Afterward, continued requests from visitors to reschedule the event led to its reopening.

During the public observation, participants will be able to observe Jupiter and its four major Galilean moons (Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto) through telescopes. The program also includes opportunities to view other prominent winter celestial objects, such as the Orion Nebula and the Pleiades star cluster.

Jupiter's opposition is the period when the planet appears opposite the Sun from Earth's perspective, making it visible all night and at its brightest and largest due to its proximity to Earth. In the field of astronomy, this is considered the optimal time for planetary observation, as even beginners can easily identify planetary features.

The event will operate on a reservation-only basis. Participants must be at least five years old, and up to 40 people will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis through Naver Reservations starting January 19. Due to the reservation system, the participation fee is set at 1,000 won per person, but the center will provide commemorative gifts of equal value to all participants.

On the day of the event, participants should arrive at the center's Star House by 6:40 p.m., follow staff instructions to move to the observatory, and then join the program. However, as this is a nighttime observation event, the schedule may be changed or canceled depending on weather conditions, so prior confirmation is recommended.

A representative from the Yecheon Astronomy and Space Center stated, "Since we are reopening a previously canceled program, we are preparing an even more enriching and beneficial public observation event tailored to our visitors. As this is a winter nighttime event, we strongly advise participants to come well-prepared for the cold with thick coats, warm gear, and heat packs."