Jupiter and Mars to Appear Close in November 2026 Sky

Jupiter and Mars are expected to make a close apparent pairing on November 15, 2026, appearing in the constellation Leo near the bright star Regulus. Their closest apparent approach is listed for 9:04 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, when the planets will be below the horizon for U.S. observers.

Key details

• The planets are expected to rise in the east around local midnight for U.S. observers.
• Jupiter should appear brighter than Mars, with a separation of slightly more than one degree as they rise.
• Both planets should fit within the view of 10×50 binoculars.
• A telescope with an aperture of about four inches may show Jupiter’s Great Red Spot in the predawn hours of November 16.
• The planets are expected to appear farther apart over subsequent weeks, with a comparably close pairing forecast for July 2029 in Virgo.

Jupiter and Mars are expected to appear slightly more than one degree apart as they rise.

Why it matters

The timing means U.S. observers will need to look after the planets rise, rather than at the moment of closest approach. The pairing offers a binocular viewing opportunity, while a telescope can show a feature on Jupiter during the following predawn hours.