The planet Jupiter will present a curious astronomical phenomenon on Tuesday night (10). At around 11:44 p.m., the gas giant will appear to remain temporarily motionless in the sky — an effect known as stationary motion.
This phenomenon occurs when the apparent speed of the planet in relation to the stars becomes practically zero for a few moments. Despite the visual impression, the planet does not actually stop; the effect is caused by the perspective of the Earth’s movement in its orbit around the Sun.
Since November 11, 2025, the so-called , when it appears to move from east to west in the sky relative to the background stars. This behavior happens because the Earth, in its orbit, overtakes the planet — an effect similar to that observed when a car overtakes another on the road.
After tonight’s stationary moment, from March 11th, Jupiter will resume its so-called direct movement, once again appearing to move from west to east between the stars. This is the normal direction in which the planets move around the Sun.
In the coming weeks, the planet will continue to be , even to the naked eye, even in urban areas with light pollution.
