From SCIENCE@NASA:

If you feel the urge to look up at the sky this month, you might be feeling the pull of Jupiter.

The giant planet is having a close encounter with Earth all month long. On May 6th, the date of closest approach, Jupiter will be 410 million miles away, which is almost 200 million miles closer than it was just six months ago in October. This makes Jupiter unusually big and bright.

Look for it rising in the east at sunset. Jupiter is unmistakable, shining ten times brighter than any star around it. The view through a backyard telescope is dynamite. You can see Jupiter’s cloud belts, the Great Red Spot and four large moons (Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto) circling the planet.

During the next few weeks as I take some much needed breaks by way of diversionary road trips near and far, I will be taking my telescope out and about so I might enjoy the breathtaking views available beyond city limits.  One thing I will be looking at is Jupiter.

See the linked story for recommendations on the best times to watch and what you will see.