Saturn

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The great atrraction of Saturn is its rings, which can be just about made out in medium binoculars. In medium sized telescopes, detail can be made out on its surface, although it isn't as pronounced as Jupiter and its largest moon (Titan) can be seen in binoculars and small telescopes. Up to seven moons can be seen in larger amateur telescopes.

It is the opening and closing of its rings in relation to us that causes the greatest change in brightness.

Name Saturn

Maximum Magnitude -0.5

Minimum Magnitude +0.5

Solar "year" - time to circle the sun 29 years 6 months

Sydonic period - time to return to the same place in the sky relative to the sun 378 days

Maximum Elongation from the Sun 180 degrees

Maximum Apparent Size 19 arcseconds

Minimum Apparent Size 16 arcseconds

Distance from Sun 886 million miles

Minimum Distance from Earth 793 million miles

Maximum Distance from Earth 977 million miles

Best view in 50mm binoculars Some sense that it has an odd shape, as the rings aren't quite clear. Titan.

Best view in 60mm refractor Rings are clearly visible and sometimes the Cassini "division" can be seen. Titan.

Best view in 127mm Maksutov Rings divide into 3 regions. Shading is visible on the planet's surface. Up to 7 moons should be visible but I've only seen 4 at a time.

More Information about Saturn

Solar Views Saturn
Nine Planets Saturn
University Corporation for Atmospheric Research Saturn
Cassini Mission
Saturn Events

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Name	Saturn
Maximum Magnitude	-0.5
Minimum Magnitude	+0.5
Solar "year" - time to circle the sun	29 years 6 months
Sydonic period - time to return to the same place in the sky relative to the sun	378 days
Maximum Elongation from the Sun	180 degrees
Maximum Apparent Size	19 arcseconds
Minimum Apparent Size	16 arcseconds
Distance from Sun	886 million miles
Minimum Distance from Earth	793 million miles
Maximum Distance from Earth	977 million miles
Best view in 50mm binoculars	Some sense that it has an odd shape, as the rings aren't quite clear. Titan.
Best view in 60mm refractor	Rings are clearly visible and sometimes the Cassini "division" can be seen. Titan.
Best view in 127mm Maksutov	Rings divide into 3 regions. Shading is visible on the planet's surface. Up to 7 moons should be visible but I've only seen 4 at a time.