THE SKY GUIDE CHALLENGE

Jupiter's Great Red Spot seems to be shrinking. Can you measure its size for yourself?

A great deal of emphasis is put on astronomical imaging these days, and the science of astronomy sometimes gets left behind as a result. However, one important area of observation, measurement and recording concerns changes in our Solar System neighbours, the planets. This month, our challenge is to measure the most famous storm of all, the Great Red Spot (GRS) on Jupiter. Here, visual observation and imaging both work to great effect. The technique you need to master for this challenge is how to make a good estimate of central meridian timings. For this, you'll need a telescope and an accurate timepiece. The telescope needs to be over 150mm aperture to be able to see the Great Red Spot clearly and, as ever, the larger you go the easier this…

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BBC Sky at Night United Kingdom (Digital) - 1 Issue, January 2025

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