According to recent findings from NASA’s Juno spacecraft, Jupiter, the largest planet in the Solar System, is smaller than previously thought. The latest measurements reveal an equatorial diameter of 142,976 km, which is about 8 km less than earlier estimations. This re-evaluation of the planet's size and shape is detailed in a paper published in Nature Astronomy, marking a significant advancement in our understanding of Jupiter's characteristics.

The new data indicate that Jupiter is not a perfect sphere but is slightly flattened. Its polar diameter measures 133,684 km, approximately 24 km smaller than earlier projections. Scientists found that Jupiter’s shape deviates from a perfect sphere, and the equatorial diameter is around 7% larger than its polar diameter. This information enhances our comprehension of the planet's internal structure and its complex atmosphere, drawing parallels between planetary formation and evolution in our Solar System.

These findings are crucial as they provide deeper insights into gas giants like Jupiter and comprehend their internal mechanics. Understanding the size and shape of Jupiter allows researchers to compare it effectively with other gas giants and terrestrial bodies, enhancing our overall understanding of the dynamics of planetary systems. The implications of this research extend not only to astronomy but also to broader discussions on planetary formation and stability in the cosmos.