The Mysterious Moons of Jupiter
July 19, 2025
Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system, has a collection of fascinating moons, each with its own unique traits. One of these moons, Europa, is especially intriguing because it's covered in a thick layer of ice. Scientists believe that beneath this icy surface could lie a vast ocean, possibly harboring life! Meanwhile, another moon called Ganymede is the largest moon in the solar system and is even bigger than the planet Mercury. Ganymede has its own magnetic field, which is quite unusual for a moon.
Jupiter's moons were first discovered by Galileo Galilei in 1610, using one of the earliest telescopes. Since then, we have learned about over 79 moons orbiting the gas giant. Each moon tells a unique story about the conditions and history of our solar system. For example, Io, the most volcanic body in our solar system, is constantly reshaping itself with over 400 active volcanoes. This diversity makes Jupiter's moons an exciting subject for scientists and space enthusiasts alike.
Ask Your Kid: If you could explore one of Jupiter's moons, which one would you choose and why?