The green comet is just a weak smudge now

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter swampwiz
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Comet Green Weak
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The green comet, initially observed as a bright object, has become barely visible due to changes in its orbital geometry. Observers using binoculars, such as 12X 60mm and 10x50s, report it now appears as a faint smudge, particularly affected by light pollution. NASA confirms that the comet will be closest to Earth on February 2, making it visible in the Southern Hemisphere during early February. Its visibility will vary as its tail always points away from the sun, impacting how it appears from Earth.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of comet visibility and orbital mechanics
  • Familiarity with astronomical observation tools, specifically binoculars
  • Knowledge of light pollution effects on celestial observations
  • Basic awareness of temperature impacts on outdoor astronomy
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the orbital mechanics of comets and their visibility patterns
  • Learn about the best binoculars for astronomical observations
  • Explore techniques to minimize light pollution during stargazing
  • Study the effects of temperature on astronomical viewing conditions
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy enthusiasts, amateur stargazers, and anyone interested in observing celestial events, particularly those tracking comet visibility.

swampwiz
Messages
567
Reaction score
83
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.)
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
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
1674857723047.png
 
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.
 

Similar threads

Where Can I Find Comet Lovejoy in the Sky Right Now?
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
Stargazing Is There an Unidentified Object Near the Horsehead Nebula?
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
High School Considering a budget observatory
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Undergrad Where can I find publicly accessible data from observatories in Europe?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
High School Star visible for longest time from Earth
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
High School Question about Primary Colors -- Why Red-Green-Blue?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Undergrad How feasible is home radio astronomy?
  • · Replies 93 ·
4
Replies
93
Views
12K
Why do Christmas lights glow green near a Tesla coil?
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
Stargazing Telescope or Binoculars for First Astronomy Device?
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
High School Why Jupiter, Saturn and the Sun have a distinctive and sharp boundary?
  • · Replies 34 ·
2
Replies
34
Views
8K