Introduction to Astronomy July 2021

The 79 Moons of Jupiter

by guest speaker Jonathan Park

Jupiter, the largest planet in our Solar System, has 79 known moons. Tonight, Jonathan discusses the different groups of moons orbiting Jupiter, learning about the difference between regular and irregular moons. We will see how astronomers identify which of these were originally part of a single object before breaking into the separate satellites we see today. Finally, we will take a closer look at some of the extraordinary features of the giant moons –  Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto, one of which may have the perfect environment for life.