Name: Jupiter's Latest Moon Discovery
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In 2017, scientists were using a telescope in Chile to hunt for Planet X, thought to be far beyond Pluto. But Jupiter came into view along with 12 never-before-seen moons, bringing the gassy giant’s current total moon count to an astonishing 79.

As if 67 moons weren’t enough, scientists discovered 12 new ones orbiting the planet.

In 2017, scientists were using a telescope in Chile to hunt for Planet X, thought to be far beyond Pluto. But Jupiter came into view along with 12 never-before-seen moons, bringing the gassy giant’s current total moon count to an astonishing 79.

Jupiter's Latest Moon Discovery

As if 67 moons weren’t enough, scientists discovered 12 new ones orbiting the planet.

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Jupiter's Latest Moon DiscoveryPublished: April 5, 2019Onscreen: 12 new moons discovered around Jupiter accidently. In 2017, scientists were using the telescope in Chile to hunt for Planet X, thought to be far beyond Pluto.But Jupiter came into view along with 12 never-before-seen moons, bringing Jupiter’s current total moon count to 79. Two of the new moons orbit closer to the planet and in the same direction as Jupiter’s spin. Nine are farther away and orbit in the opposite direction, along with about 52 other moons. One tiny rebel moon, Valetudo, just over a 1⁄2 mile wide, orbits in this swarm but against the tide.Scientists think Valetudo was likely the product of a violent collision and like a car driving of on the wrong side of the road...it’s probably doomed. Astronomers hope that by studying these moons and how they formed they’ll find clues to the origins of the solar system.

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Jupiter's Latest Moon Discovery

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Explore More

Amazing Discoveries from Cassini

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Astronomers Looking for Planet Nine Discover 12 More Moons Orbiting Jupiter