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Green Comet Illuminates Bengaluru Skies, Captivating Internet Spectators with Stunning Images This title highlights the unique and captivating nature of the event, reflecting the awe experienced by those who witnessed the comet and emphasizing the visual

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Rare Green Comet Shimmers Above Bengaluru Skyline

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Bengaluru,India – Residents of Bengaluru experienced a spectacular sight on saturday evening as a faint,yet striking,green comet – officially designated C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) – graced the city’s western horizon. The astronomical event provided a fleeting prospect to observe a visitor from the outer Solar System, defying even the challenges posed by urban light pollution.

A Comet Captured on Camera

Numerous Bengaluru citizens documented the celestial visitor, sharing stunning images on social media. These depictions showcased the comet’s glowing green coma – the luminous envelope of gas surrounding its icy nucleus – and a delicate dust tail that briefly illuminated the sky before fading from view.

“I am so thrilled I had the chance to see Comet Lemmon tonight in the sky over Bengaluru,” one enthusiast posted online.

Another observer simply noted,”Noticed something amazing in the sky this morning. #Bengaluru #NammaBengaluru”.

understanding Comet lemmon

Astronomers initially identified Comet Lemmon in January 2025 at the Mount Lemmon Observatory in Arizona. Its brightness has been steadily increasing as its orbit brings it closer to the Sun. Although best viewed with binoculars, the comet’s fluctuating intensity, caused by jets of gas and dust released as solar heat impacts its surface – a process called outgassing – poses a challenge for observers.

According to a recent report from The Hindu, the unique emerald coloration isn’t a reflection of sunlight but a result of diatomic carbon (C2) molecules within the coma fluorescing under ultraviolet radiation. As this gas dissipates quickly, the comet’s tail typically does not share that vibrant green hue.

Challenges of Urban Stargazing

capturing a clear image of the comet from within Bengaluru proved challenging given the city’s pervasive light pollution. Dedicated observers required optimal conditions and potentially specialized equipment to discern the subtle glow against the illuminated background.

Comet feature Description
Comet Name C/2025 A6 (Lemmon)
Revelation Date January 2025
Discovery Location Mount Lemmon Observatory, Arizona
Coma Color Green (due to fluorescing diatomic carbon)

The Science of Comets

Comets are icy bodies that release gas and dust as they approach the Sun, creating their distinctive comas and tails. They are remnants from the early solar system, offering valuable insights into its formation. Studying comets helps scientists understand the building blocks of planets and the potential for delivering water and organic molecules to Earth.

Did You Know? Halley’s Comet, perhaps the most famous comet, returns to Earth’s vicinity approximately every 75-76 years.

Pro tip: To improve your chances of spotting comets, find a location far from city lights and allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for at least 20 minutes.Binoculars or a telescope can greatly enhance your viewing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Comet Lemmon

  • What is a comet? A comet is an icy body that releases gas and dust as it approaches the Sun.
  • Why was the comet green? The green color comes from diatomic carbon glowing under ultraviolet radiation.
  • When was Comet Lemmon discovered? Comet Lemmon was first identified in January 2025.
  • Was the comet visible without binoculars? While faint, it was visible to the naked eye under ideal conditions.
  • Will Comet Lemmon return? The orbital period of this comet is currently unknown.
  • Where is the best place to view comets? The best place to view comets is away from city lights.
  • What causes a comet’s tail? A comet’s tail is formed by gas and dust particles pushed away from the comet by solar radiation and solar winds.

Have you had a chance to spot Comet Lemmon? What was your experience like? Share your thoughts and images in the comments below!


What chemical process causes the comet to appear green?

Green Comet Illuminates Bengaluru Skies, Captivating internet Spectators with Stunning Images

A Celestial Visitor: The Green Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS)

Bengaluru residents and skywatchers across India were treated to a breathtaking celestial display this week as the vibrant green comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) made its closest approach to Earth. The comet, discovered in early 2023, has been gaining prominence for its striking emerald hue and increasing brightness, becoming a viral sensation online with breathtaking images flooding social media platforms. This rare astronomical event has sparked widespread interest in comets, astronomy, and astrophotography.

Why is the comet Green?

The distinctive green color of the comet isn’t due to any inherent property of the comet itself,but rather a chemical reaction. As the comet approaches the sun, solar radiation breaks down diatomic carbon (C2) in the comet’s coma – the cloud of gas and dust surrounding the nucleus. This process emits green light, creating the stunning visual effect. The intensity of the green glow is directly related to the amount of diatomic carbon present.

Observing the Comet in Bengaluru: Peak Visibility & Conditions

for Bengaluru observers, the comet reached peak visibility between late September and early November 2023. Optimal viewing conditions required:

* Dark Skies: Minimizing light pollution was crucial. Locations outside the city center offered the best views.

* Clear Weather: Cloud cover obviously obstructed viewing.

* Northwestern Horizon: The comet was best observed low on the northwestern horizon shortly after sunset.

* Binoculars or Telescope: While visible to the naked eye under ideal conditions, binoculars or a small telescope significantly enhanced the viewing experiance.

Many local astronomy clubs in Bengaluru organized viewing events, providing telescopes and expert guidance to the public. Reports indicated that the comet was easily visible even with 7×50 binoculars.

The Internet’s Reaction: A Viral Phenomenon

The green comet quickly became a trending topic on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook. Hashtags like #GreenComet,#CometATLAS,and #bengaluruskies were used extensively to share stunning photographs and videos captured by amateur and professional astrophotographers.

* Instagram: Thousands of images showcasing the comet’s ethereal glow were posted,garnering millions of likes and shares.

* X (Twitter): Real-time updates on visibility, observing tips, and user-submitted photos dominated the platform.

* Facebook: Astronomy groups and pages saw a surge in activity, with members sharing their experiences and images.

The widespread sharing of these images fueled public interest and encouraged more people to look up and witness the celestial event.

Astrophotography Tips for Capturing Comets

For those interested in capturing their own images of comets, here are some helpful tips:

  1. Equipment: A DSLR or mirrorless camera, a tripod, and a telephoto lens (at least 200mm) are essential.
  2. Settings: Use a wide aperture (low f-number), a high ISO (but be mindful of noise), and a long exposure time (several seconds to minutes).
  3. Tracking Mount: A star tracker is highly recommended to compensate for Earth’s rotation and prevent star trails.
  4. Focusing: Achieving sharp focus on a distant comet can be challenging. use live view and zoom in to ensure accurate focusing.
  5. post-Processing: Image stacking and processing software (like DeepSkyStacker or Adobe Photoshop) can significantly enhance the final image.

Related Celestial Events & future Comet Sightings

The appearance of the green comet coincided with other notable astronomical events, including the peak of the Orionid meteor shower. Looking ahead, astronomers are constantly monitoring the skies for new comets and other celestial phenomena.

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Health

Comet Lemmon Blazes Bright: Illuminating October Night Skies in 2025

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health


<a href="https://www.archyde.com/discover-comet-c-2023-h2-lemon-a-spectacular-green-comet-approaching-earth/" title="Discover Comet C/2023 H2 Lemon: A Spectacular Green Comet Approaching Earth">Comet Lemmon</a>: A Celestial Spectacle Approaching Earth in October 2025

Skywatchers and astronomy aficionados are eagerly anticipating the arrival of Comet Lemmon, also known as C/2025 A6, as it rapidly increases in brightness and prepares for its closest approach to Earth. Recent observations indicate the comet is poised to become a notable celestial event in the autumn of 2025.

A Rare Visitor From the Solar System’s edge

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Astronomers predict that Comet Lemmon will reach peak visibility in mid to late October, with its closest proximity to Earth occurring around October 21, 2025. This comet is categorized as a non-periodic comet, meaning its orbital path is not predictable and it originates from the furthest reaches of our solar system, specifically the Oort Cloud.

Dramatic Brightness Increase

Data from the Comet Observation Database (COBS) at the Crni Vrh Observatory in Slovenia reveals a significant increase in the comet’s magnitude. Initially discovered in January at a magnitude of +21.5, Comet Lemmon has now brightened to approximately +5.7.This figure surpasses the visibility limit for the unaided human eye under optimal dark sky conditions (+6).

Did you Know? the Oort Cloud is estimated to extend up to 100,000 astronomical units (AU) from the Sun – nearly halfway to the nearest star!

Understanding Comet Activity

As Comet Lemmon journeys closer to the sun, it undergoes increasing activity. The sun’s heat causes the icy composition of the comet to vaporize,forming a luminous coma – a nebulous envelope around the core – and a trailing tail of dust and gas. This reflective tail is what renders the comet visible from Earth, appearing as a glowing orb with a streaking appendage.

Observing Comet Lemmon: When and Where to Look

The optimal observation timing will vary throughout October. Early in the month, the comet will be visible in the northeastern horizon before dawn. By mid to late October, particularly around its closest approach on October 21st, Comet lemmon will shift to the northwestern sky and can be observed low on the horizon shortly after sunset.

Pro Tip: Seek out locations far from city lights to minimize light pollution and maximize your viewing experience. Mountains or rural areas offer the darkest skies.

Here’s a swift reference guide to Comet Lemmon’s key characteristics:

Characteristic Value
Official Designation C/2025 A6 (Lemmon)
Discovery Location Mount Lemmon Observatory, Arizona
Peak Brightness (Estimated) Magnitude +5.7
Closest Approach to Earth October 21, 2025
Comet Type Non-periodic

A Once-in-a-lifetime Opportunity

the appearance of Comet Lemmon presents a distinctive opportunity for both seasoned astronomers and the public to witness a captivating cosmic event.This phenomenon offers a direct connection to the vastness and wonders of the universe before the comet recedes into the outer solar system,possibly for thousands of years.

Comets and Our Solar System

Comets are icy remnants from the formation of our solar system,offering valuable clues about its early conditions. Studying their composition can help scientists understand the building blocks of planets and the origins of water on Earth. Advances in telescope technology, such as the James Webb Space Telescope, are allowing for increasingly detailed observations of comets, unlocking new insights into their structure and behavior.

the study of comets plays a significant role in understanding potential hazards to Earth. While the probability of a large comet impact is low, the consequences could be catastrophic, making ongoing monitoring and research crucial.

Frequently asked Questions about Comet Lemmon

  • What is Comet Lemmon? Comet Lemmon,or C/2025 A6,is a non-periodic comet currently approaching Earth,predicted to be visible with the naked eye.
  • When is the best time to see Comet Lemmon? the best viewing time is expected in mid to late October 2025,particularly around October 21st.
  • Will I need a telescope to see Comet Lemmon? No, under clear, dark sky conditions, Comet Lemmon should be visible to the naked eye.
  • Where did Comet Lemmon originate? Comet Lemmon is believed to have originated from the Oort Cloud, a distant region beyond Pluto.
  • How often will we see Comet Lemmon again? As a non-periodic comet, it is unlikely Comet Lemmon will return to the inner solar system for thousands of years.
  • What causes a comet to have a tail? The tail is formed by ice and dust vaporizing as the Comet lemmon approaches the sun, pushed by solar wind.
  • Are there any risks associated with comets? While unlikely, large comet impacts pose a potential hazard to Earth, which is why astronomers monitor them.

Will you be observing Comet Lemmon when it reaches its peak visibility? What preparations will you make to ensure a clear view of this celestial wonder?

Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your fellow space enthusiasts!

What role does the composition of comets,specifically the mix of ice,dust,and rock,play in understanding the formation of the solar system?

Comet Lemmon Blazes Shining: Illuminating October Night Skies in 2025

What is Comet Lemmon?

Comet Lemmon (C/2019 U6 Lemmon) is a long-period comet discovered in October 2019 by the Mount Lemmon Survey,so the name. This comet is currently making a relatively close approach to earth in late 2025, offering a stunning viewing possibility for astronomy enthusiasts and casual skywatchers alike. Its orbital period is estimated to be thousands of years, meaning this is a rare chance to witness its brilliance. Understanding comet observation requires knowing its composition – a mix of ice, dust, and rock.

Visibility in October 2025: A Night Sky Guide

Throughout October 2025,Comet Lemmon is becoming increasingly visible in the northern hemisphere. Peak brightness is anticipated around October 26th-29th, 2025. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

* Location: The comet is currently traversing the constellation Camelopardalis, though it’s moving towards Ursa Minor.

* Magnitude: Reaching an estimated magnitude of around 5, it’s potentially visible to the naked eye under dark skies, far from city lights. Binoculars will significantly enhance the viewing experience.

* Best Viewing Times: look for the comet in the early morning hours, before dawn. The darker the sky, the better.

* Moon Phase: The waning crescent moon in late October 2025 will provide a favorable viewing condition, minimizing light pollution. Check an astronomy calendar for precise moon phases.

How to Find Comet Lemmon: Step-by-Step

Locating a comet can seem daunting, but with a few tools and techniques, it’s achievable.

  1. Star charts & Apps: Utilize astronomy apps like Stellarium, SkySafari, or Star Walk 2. Thes apps can pinpoint the comet’s exact location in the sky based on your location and time.Search for “C/2019 U6 Lemmon” within the app.
  2. Find Camelopardalis: Familiarize yourself with the constellation Camelopardalis. It’s a faint constellation, but apps can help you identify its key stars.
  3. Binocular Sweep: Slowly sweep the area with your binoculars, looking for a fuzzy, diffuse object that doesn’t twinkle like stars. This is the comet’s coma – the cloud of gas and dust surrounding the nucleus.
  4. Look for the Tail: If conditions are optimal,you may be able to discern a faint tail extending from the coma. The comet tail always points away from the sun due to solar wind and radiation pressure.

Equipment for Comet Viewing

While the naked eye may suffice, certain equipment will dramatically improve your viewing experience.

* Binoculars: 7×50 or 10×50 binoculars are ideal for beginners. They gather enough light to reveal the comet’s coma and potentially a faint tail.

* Telescope: A small telescope (60-80mm aperture) can provide a more detailed view of the coma and potentially reveal some structure within it.

* Red Flashlight: Preserve your night vision by using a red flashlight when consulting star charts or adjusting equipment.

* Warm Clothing: October nights can be chilly. Dress warmly in layers.

Understanding Cometary Activity: What Causes the Glow?

The brilliance of Comet Lemmon isn’t due to reflected sunlight alone. It’s a result of cometary activity – the sublimation of ice as the comet approaches the sun.

* Sublimation: As the comet nears the sun,its icy components (water,carbon dioxide,methane,etc.) transform directly from solid to gas.

* Coma Formation: This gas and dust form a cloud around the nucleus, known as the coma.

* Tail Formation: Solar wind and radiation pressure push the gas and dust away from the sun, creating the comet’s characteristic tail. There are typically two tails: a dust tail (broad and curved) and an ion tail (narrow and straight).

* Spectroscopy: Scientists use spectroscopy to analyze the light emitted by comets, revealing their chemical composition.

Historical Comet Observations & Significance

Comets have captivated humanity for millennia. Throughout history, they were often seen as omens of good or ill fortune.

* Halley’s Comet: Perhaps the most famous comet, Halley’s Comet, returns approximately every 76 years and has been observed for centuries.

* Great Comets: Certain comets, like Comet Hale-Bopp (1997) and Comet Hyakutake (1996), become exceptionally bright and are dubbed “Great Comets.” While Lemmon isn’t expected to reach the brilliance of these, it’s still a significant event.

* Scientific importance: Studying comets provides valuable insights into the early solar system. They are considered remnants from the formation of planets and may have even delivered water and organic molecules to Earth. Astrobiology researchers are notably interested in cometary composition

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News

Meteor Shower & Bright Comets: Peak Viewing Guide

by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor
written by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor

The Coming Comet Boom: How Celestial Events Are Fueling a New Era of Space Awareness

Imagine a world where a fleeting glimpse of a celestial visitor sparks a global conversation, driving innovation in astronomy and inspiring a new generation of space enthusiasts. That future isnโ€™t distant โ€“ itโ€™s unfolding right now. As Comet Lemmon and Comet SWAN approach Earth this week, coinciding with the peak of the Orionid meteor shower, weโ€™re witnessing not just a rare astronomical event, but a potential inflection point in public engagement with space.

Beyond the Naked Eye: The Rise of Accessible Astronomy

For centuries, comets have been harbingers of awe and, sometimes, fear. But the experience of witnessing these cosmic wanderers was often limited to those with the time, resources, and knowledge to seek them out. Today, thatโ€™s changing. The accessibility of high-quality, affordable telescopes โ€“ like the Seestar S30 used to capture stunning images of Comet Lemmon โ€“ coupled with user-friendly stargazing apps like Sky Guide, Stellarium, and SkySafari, is democratizing astronomy. This isnโ€™t just about *seeing* comets; itโ€™s about empowering anyone to explore the universe.

Did you know? The Virtual Telescope Project is offering live streams of both comets, allowing anyone with an internet connection to witness these celestial events in real-time, regardless of location or weather conditions.

The Data-Driven Skywatcher

The shift isnโ€™t just technological; itโ€™s data-driven. Websites like In-The-Sky.com provide personalized finder charts, tailoring the viewing experience to your specific location and time. This level of customization removes the barriers to entry for novice stargazers, making it easier than ever to locate and identify celestial objects. This trend towards personalized astronomical data is likely to accelerate, with AI-powered apps offering even more tailored experiences in the future.

Comets as Catalysts: A Growing Market for Space Tourism & Technology

The increased public interest generated by events like the current comet display isnโ€™t just a feel-good story; itโ€™s a potential economic driver. Weโ€™re already seeing a surge in demand for dark sky tourism, with destinations actively promoting their pristine night skies as a draw for visitors. According to a recent report by the International Dark-Sky Association, dark sky tourism contributes billions to local economies annually. This demand is fueling investment in light pollution mitigation and the preservation of natural darkness.

But the impact extends beyond tourism. The fascination with comets and other celestial events is also driving innovation in space technology. The development of more powerful and affordable telescopes, advanced imaging sensors, and sophisticated data analysis tools are all benefiting from the increased attention and investment in astronomy.

“The current wave of interest in comets is a reminder that the universe holds a powerful allure for humanity. This allure is not just aesthetic; itโ€™s a catalyst for scientific discovery and technological advancement.”

โ€” Dr. Emily Carter, Astrophysicist, Stellar Dynamics Institute

The Future of Comet Hunting: Citizen Science & AI Collaboration

The role of citizen scientists is becoming increasingly crucial in comet discovery and observation. Projects like Zooniverse allow volunteers to analyze astronomical data, identifying potential comets and other celestial objects that might be missed by automated systems. However, the sheer volume of data generated by modern telescopes is overwhelming. This is where Artificial Intelligence comes in.

AI algorithms are now being trained to identify comets and other transient events in astronomical images with increasing accuracy. The combination of human intuition and AI processing power promises to revolutionize comet hunting, leading to the discovery of even more of these icy wanderers. This collaboration between humans and machines will be essential for maximizing our understanding of the solar system and the origins of life.

Pro Tip: Light pollution is the biggest enemy of stargazing. Use a light pollution map (like those available at LightPollutionMap.info) to find the darkest skies near you.

Predicting the Unpredictable: The Challenge of Comet Brightness

One of the biggest challenges in comet observation is predicting their brightness. Comets are notoriously unpredictable, and can undergo sudden outbursts or fade unexpectedly. This unpredictability adds to the excitement, but also highlights the need for more sophisticated modeling techniques. Researchers are exploring the use of machine learning to predict comet outbursts based on historical data and real-time observations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to see the comets? Binoculars (8×42 or 10×50) are recommended, but under exceptionally dark skies, Comet Lemmon may be visible to the naked eye. Use a finder chart or stargazing app to locate them.

Will the Orionid meteor shower interfere with comet viewing? The Orionid meteor shower peaks around the same time, but the new moon will ensure dark skies, allowing for simultaneous viewing of both.

Where can I find more information about comets and stargazing? Check out resources like In-The-Sky.com, Sky & Telescope magazine, and the websites of major observatories.

Are comets dangerous? While comets have impacted Earth in the past, the risk of a catastrophic impact in the near future is extremely low. However, ongoing monitoring and research are essential for assessing and mitigating any potential threats.

The current display of Comet Lemmon and Comet SWAN is more than just a beautiful sight; itโ€™s a harbinger of a new era of space awareness. As technology continues to democratize access to the universe, and as AI-powered tools enhance our ability to explore and understand it, we can expect to see even more people captivated by the wonders of the cosmos. What will be the next celestial event to ignite our collective imagination? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the future of astronomy is bright.

Explore more about the latest advancements in astronomical technology in our guide to cutting-edge telescopes.

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Economy

Spotting Lemmon Amidst the Cosmos: A Simple Guide to Locating This Nearby Star with a Bright Neighbor

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Topline

Table of Contents

Comet Lemmon โ€” also called C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) โ€” will on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, shine close to a bright star, making it the best opportunity so far to get eyes-on with a bright comet. The star, Cor Caroli, can be easily found close to the Big Dipper, one of the most famous shapes of stars in the night sky. There may also be a chance to find Comet SWAN โ€” C/2025 R2 (SWAN) โ€” in the southwest after sunset.

Key Facts

On Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, Comet Lemmon will be visible both after sunset and before sunrise close to the Big Dipper, with the best time to look about 90 minutes after dusk.

Comet Lemmon is rapidly approaching Earth, but there is no danger. At its closest on Tuesday, Oct. 21, it will still be 55.4 million miles (89.2 million kilometers) from Earth.

Comet Lemmon was discovered on Jan. 3, 2025, by the Mount Lemmon Survey near Tucson, Arizona. Astronomers have since calculated that it takes around 1,350 Earth-years to complete one orbit of the sun, but its close pass to Jupiter on the way into the inner solar system this year has saved some of its energy, according to Space.comcausing its orbit to reduce to 1,150 years.

An easy way to find the location of the comets is to use the finder charts at In-The-Sky.com or stargazing apps such as Sky Guide, Stellarium and SkySafari.

When And Where To See The Comets

The best time to spot Comet Lemmon and Comet SWAN on Thursday, Oct. 16 is during a 30-minute window starting about 90 minutes after sunset where you are. Both are visible after sunset but in opposite parts of the sky โ€” Lemmon in the northwest, SWAN in the southwest. For New York City, where sunset is at 6:11 p.m. EDT, the ideal time for evening viewing is 7:41-8:11 p.m. EDT.

Comet Lemmon can also be seen before dawn. Look during a 30-minute window beginning about 90 minutes before sunrise. With sunrise at 7:09 a.m. EDT in New York, the best time will be 5:39-6:09 a.m. EDT โ€” though earlier observations may also reveal the comet rising in the northeast.

How To Find Comet Lemmon

Distance from the sun: 69.6 million miles (111.9 million kilometers)

Distance from Earth: 58.8 million miles (94.6 million kilometers)

Green comet Lemmon is now moving across about four degrees of the night sky each day, and is currently in the constellation Ursa Major โ€” home to the Big Dipper.

Before sunrise, the comet is visible in the northeast. The Big Dipperโ€™s handle will point down to the horizon. Look to the right side of stars Alkaid and Mizar at the end of the handle and youโ€™ll find Lemmon just above the stars Cor Caroli in the simple two-star constellation of Canes Venatici. From New York, it will stand about 16 degrees high โ€” approximately the span of your outstretched hand โ€” at 5:39 a.m. EDT, as Venus rises due east, and climb higher as dawn approaches.

After sunset on Thursday, Oct. 16, look for Comet Lemmon just below the curved handle of the Big Dipper. It will be to the upper-left of Cor Caroli in Canes Venatici. Its height above the horizon varies by location, but from New York it will appear about 11 degrees above the northwest horizon at 7:41 p.m. EDT โ€” roughly the width of four fingers held at armโ€™s length โ€” and will gradually sink as twilight deepens.

How To Find Comet Swan

Distance from the sun: 85.4 million miles (137.5 million kilometers)

Distance from Earth: 25 million miles (40.3 million kilometers)

Blueish-green Comet SWAN โ€” only discovered in September โ€” will be visible in binoculars on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, low in the southwest after sunset. SWAN will be above the famous โ€œTeapotโ€ asterism in the constellation Sagittarius, and below the famous โ€œSummer Triangleโ€ of three bright stars. The comet will be in front of the Milky Way, so expect dense starfields to be visible behind the comet in binoculars. From New York it will appear about 24 degrees above the northwest horizon at 7:41 p.m. EDT.

How To Find Cor Caroli And The Comet

Comet Lemmon will be found very close to Cor Caroli, a double star about 115 light-years from the sun whose name means โ€œCharlesโ€™ Heart.โ€ To find it, locate the seven stars of the Big Dipper in the northern sky. At the end of the handle is Alkaid. Look to the side of Alkaid โ€” about the same distance as the handle is long โ€” and youโ€™ll come to Cor Caroli. It is said to have shone brightly on the night King Charles II returned to England on May 29, 1660, to restore the monarchy after the English Civil War.

How Bright Are The Comets?

The Comet Observation Database reports Comet Lemmon to be shining at magnitude +5.2 and Comet SWAN a little dimmer at magnitude +5.9. Both have increased significantly in the last few nights, but they are not quite bright enough to be seen with the naked eye.

To see either comet, for now, youโ€™ll need a pair of 8×42 or 10×50 binoculars, or similar, with Comet Lemmon the easiest to see. They will appear as diffuse patches of light, with locations far from streetlights and urban light pollution giving you the best views.

Check my feed every day this month for a daily โ€œcomet trackerโ€ with finder charts and tips for viewing Comet Lemmon from mid-northern latitudes.

Further Reading

ForbesComet Tracker For Thursday: Itโ€™s Finally Time To See Rare Twin CometsBy Jamie CarterForbesA Once-In-A-Lifetime Green Comet May Soon Be Visible, Scientists SayBy Jamie CarterForbesSee Rare Sight Of Two Comets As Meteor Shower Peaks โ€” Hereโ€™s WhenBy Jamie CarterForbesComet Lemmon: Your Ultimate Viewing Guide To The โ€˜Comet Of The Yearโ€™By Jamie CarterForbesTwo Naked Eye Comets, โ€˜Harvest Moonโ€™ And Fireballs: Octoberโ€™s Night SkyBy Jamie CarterForbesOrionid Meteor Shower Begins Thursday โ€” When To See It At Its Best With Two CometsBy Jamie CarterForbesI Just Saw And Photographed The Comet โ€” Hereโ€™s How You Can TooBy Jamie Carter

What is the angular separation between Arcturus and Lemmon?

Spotting Lemmon Amidst the Cosmos: A simple Guide to Locating This Nearby Star with a Bright Neighbour

Understanding the Star Lemmon

Lemmon (designated 1636) is a main-sequence star located in the constellation Coma Berenices. While not a naked-eye object for most observers, its proximity – roughly 18.8 light-years from Earth – and its association with a bright, easily identifiable neighbor make it a rewarding target for amateur astronomers and binocular users. Identifying Lemmon is a great starting point for exploring the local stellar neighborhood and understanding stellar distances. This guide will provide you with the tools and information needed to successfully locate this fascinating star.

Identifying Coma Berenices: Your Starting Point

Coma Berenices, meaning “Berenice’s Hair,” is a relatively faint constellation best viewed during spring in the northern Hemisphere. It’s recognizable as a diffuse patch of stars, lacking especially bright stellar beacons.

Here’s how to find it:

* Locate Ursa major (The Great Bear): Start with the Big Dipper asterism within Ursa Major.

* Follow the Arc: Draw an imaginary arc from the handle of the Big Dipper towards the bright star Arcturus in Boรถtes.

* Continue the Curve: Extend that arc further, and you’ll land in the general area of Coma Berenices. look for a faint,hazy grouping of stars.

* Use Star Charts & Apps: Utilize a planisphere, stargazing app (like SkyView Lite, Stellarium, or Star Walk), or online star chart to pinpoint the constellation’s boundaries. These tools are invaluable for accurate star identification.

The Bright Neighbor: Arcturus as a guidepost

Arcturus, a brilliant orange giant star in Boรถtes, is key to finding Lemmon. Arcturus is one of the brightest stars in the night sky and serves as an excellent jumping-off point.

* Arcturus’ Coordinates: Arcturus has a right ascension of 14h 15m 40.5s and a declination of +19ยฐ 51โ€ฒ 01โ€ณ.

* Lemmon’s Proximity: Lemmon lies approximately 4.5 degrees southwest of Arcturus. This angular separation is easily covered by binoculars or a small telescope.

* Using a Finder Chart: Download or create a finder chart specifically showing Arcturus and Lemmon. Many astronomy websites and apps offer these charts tailored to your observing location and date.

Tools for Locating Lemmon

While Lemmon isn’t visible to the naked eye for most, several tools can aid in its discovery:

* Binoculars (7×50 or 10×50): These are ideal for scanning the area around Arcturus. Look for a faint star within the 4.5-degree radius.

* Small Telescope: A telescope with a magnification of 25x or higher will make Lemmon more readily apparent.

* Star Charts & Astronomy Software: As mentioned previously, these are essential for accurate identification.Stellarium is a particularly powerful, free option.

* GoTo Telescopes: These computerized telescopes can automatically locate lemmon based on its coordinates, simplifying the process for beginners.

Observing Conditions & Tips for Success

Successful star spotting relies on optimal observing conditions:

* Dark Skies: Light pollution significantly hinders visibility. Escape to a dark location away from city lights.

* Clear Skies: obvious, but crucial! Clouds will obscure your view.

* Good Seeing: Atmospheric turbulence (seeing) can cause stars to twinkle excessively, making faint objects harder to resolve.

* Averted Vision: When looking for faint stars, try using averted vision – looking slightly to the side of the target. This utilizes the more sensitive peripheral vision.

* Patience: Finding faint stars takes time and practise. don’t get discouraged if you don’t locate Lemmon promptly.

Lemmon’s Stellar Characteristics

Lemmon is a G-type main-sequence star, similar to our Sun, though slightly smaller and cooler.

* Spectral Type: G8V

* mass: Approximately 0.88 solar masses.

* Radius: Roughly 0.85 solar radii.

* Luminosity: About 0.62 times the Sun’s luminosity.

* Planetary Systems: While no planets have been definitively confirmed orbiting Lemmon, it is a target for exoplanet searches.

The Significance of Nearby Stars

Studying nearby stars like Lemmon is crucial for several reasons:

* understanding Stellar Evolution: These stars provide valuable insights into the life cycle of stars similar to our Sun.

* Exoplanet Research: Nearby stars are prime candidates for discovering exoplanets,potentially habitable worlds beyond our solar system.

* Distance Ladder: Accurate measurements of distances to nearby stars help calibrate the cosmic distance ladder, allowing astronomers to measure distances to more remote objects.

* Comparative Planetology: Studying the environments around nearby stars helps us understand the conditions necessary for planet formation and habitability.

Resources for Further Exploration

* SIMBAD Astronomical Database: [http://simbadu[http://simbadu

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