Jupiter will dominate Monday night’s sky as the planet orbits closer to Earth

This week is Jupiter’s time to shine!

The planet will shine brightest from Monday night until Tuesday morning.

This is because Jupiter will hit opposition, meaning this is the point on its orbit when it is closest to Earth, according to AccuWeather.

“When Earth is between the sun and an outer planet, the outer planet is said to be in opposition because, from Earth’s point of view, it is opposite to the sun,” explains AccuWeather.

The gas giant will outshine the stars, only the moon and Venus will appear brighter.

The largest planet in the solar system will be visible all night, but the best time to search for Jupiter is between midnight and 2 a.m. local time.

According to AccuWeather, clear conditions are expected for much of the United States on Monday night.

RELATED: How to Spot Neowise, the Newly Discovered Comet Now Visible to the Eye

Jupiter is not the only planet to achieve opposition this month. Saturn, although not as bright, will reach maximum visibility a week later, on July 20.

Julius gives star gazers another heavenly gift. Comet Neowise, discovered in late March, appears brighter as it approaches the sun. At the moment, it is brighter than Halley’s Comet in 1986.