Which planet is known for the Great Red Spot and was observed by Galileo, with moons including Ganymede and Europa?

Which planet is known for the Great Red Spot and was observed by Galileo, with moons including Ganymede and Europa?

• A. Venus
• B. Saturn
• C. Jupiter
• D. Mercury

Answer: (C)

The planet in question is identified by two well-known facts: a gigantic, long-lasting storm and a set of moons that Galileo observed. The Great Red Spot is a massive anticyclonic storm that has raged in Jupiter’s atmosphere for centuries, large enough to contain multiple Earths. Galileo’s observations with his telescope revealed several moons orbiting the planet, including Ganymede—the largest moon in the solar system—and Europa, an icy moon that excites interest about possible subsurface oceans. These clues together point to Jupiter. Venus and Mercury don’t host moons like that, and while Saturn has rings, the Great Red Spot is a hallmark feature unique to Jupiter.

The planet in question is identified by two well-known facts: a gigantic, long-lasting storm and a set of moons that Galileo observed. The Great Red Spot is a massive anticyclonic storm that has raged in Jupiter’s atmosphere for centuries, large enough to contain multiple Earths. Galileo’s observations with his telescope revealed several moons orbiting the planet, including Ganymede—the largest moon in the solar system—and Europa, an icy moon that excites interest about possible subsurface oceans. These clues together point to Jupiter. Venus and Mercury don’t host moons like that, and while Saturn has rings, the Great Red Spot is a hallmark feature unique to Jupiter.