Key Takeaways
- Visibility depends on clear skies and geographic location
- Jupiter aligns vertically above Kaaba at 3:09 AM Friday local time
- Rare astronomical event provides natural qibla indicator
MAKKAH — The planet Jupiter will align directly above the Kaaba at 3:09 AM local time Friday.
The event occurs during optimal viewing conditions for the gas giant, which currently appears particularly bright in the night sky due to its orbital position relative to Earth.
Astronomical calculations indicate the alignment will be most precise for observers in Makkah, with the planet appearing directly overhead.
The event nonetheless represents a convergence of astronomical precision and religious geography that occurs only periodically with different celestial bodies.
Sky watchers are advised to look toward the Kaaba’s direction approximately 15 minutes before the specified time to observe Jupiter approaching its zenith position.