Face of Jupiter unmasked

Smiling face on Jupiter captured by Newbury astronomer

“WHAT are you looking at?”

Following this unique snap of Jupiter apparently gazing down on us last month more than 100 people descended on the Nature Discovery Centre in Thatcham on Friday to stare back at the largest planet in the solar system.

The centre invited amateur astronomers from the Newbury and Reading Astronomical Societies to set up their telescopes for local people to use with expert help from members.

The picture was picture was taken by Newbury Astronomical Society member John Napper on October 15, after he saw two dark clouds - known as barges - had appeared, and along with the Great Red Spot it gave the impression of a face.

On a clear night the visitors were able to see the coloured cloud bands that encircle the planet and identify the four large moons which orbit it.

The Newbury Astronomical Society said Jupiter is prominent in the southern sky and currently at its best position for observing this year.