B The green comet is just a weak smudge now

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    Comet Green Weak
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The green comet, previously bright and visible, is now a faint smudge in the sky, particularly noted by observers using binoculars. NASA indicates it will be best seen in the Southern Hemisphere around early February, with its closest approach to Earth on February 2. The comet's visibility fluctuates due to its orbit and the changing geometry relative to Earth and the Sun. Observers have reported challenges due to light pollution and cold temperatures, yet many still find enjoyment in the experience. The comet will not remain visible for long, emphasizing the importance of timely observation.
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I think I has observed it a few weeks ago (maybe it was something else), and it was long & bright, but now it's barely visible . (I'm using a 12X, 60mm binocular.)
 
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According to 9-news, NASA say the comet should be able to be seen in the Southern Hemisphere during early February. It will be closest to Earth on February 2, before heading back out into space.
 
Whew. You had me worried for a minute there. Thought you were talking about this guy
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swampwiz said:
I think I has observed it a few weeks ago (maybe it was something else), and it was long & bright, but now it's barely visible . (I'm using a 12X, 60mm binocular.)
Its tail always points away from the sun, so it might be more visible on Earth at some parts of its orbit than at others. It will not be around for long, so the geometry of it, versus Earth, versus the Sun has changed a lot since two weeks ago.
 
ust saw the much (over)hyped comet using large binoculars. Lots of light from streetlights, so just a faint smudge. Temperature was -26C (-15F). Still enjoyed, despite the faintness and cold. Used 10x50s to locate it, then 15x70s.
 
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3I/ATLAS, also known as C/2025 N1 (ATLAS) and formerly designated as A11pl3Z, is an iinterstellar comet. It was discovered by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) station at Río Hurtado, Chile on 1 July 2025. Note: it was mentioned (as A11pl3Z) by DaveE in a new member's introductory thread. https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/brian-cox-lead-me-here.1081670/post-7274146 https://earthsky.org/space/new-interstellar-object-candidate-heading-toward-the-sun-a11pl3z/ One...
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