Jupiter's moon count jumps to 92, most in solar system - KSL.com

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — Astronomers have discovered 12 new moons around Jupiter, putting the total count at a record-breaking 92.

The Jupiter moons were added recently to a list kept by the International Astronomical Union's Minor Planet Center, said Scott Sheppard of the Carnegie Institution, who was part of the team.

"I hope we can image one of these outer moons close-up in the near future to better determine their origins," he said in an email Friday.

In April, the European Space Agency is sending a spacecraft to Jupiter to study the planet and some of its biggest, icy moons.

And next year, NASA will launch the Europa Clipper to explore Jupiter's moon of the same name, which could harbor an ocean beneath its frozen crust.

On Friday scientists said they have discovered 12 new moons around the gas giant, putting the total count at a record-breaking 92.