Wednesday, 12 June 2013

In September 2013, a comet will be passing by Earth. It's so bright, you might be able to see it in daylight!

Most comets that pass by Earth’s vicinity can only be glimpsed through intricate and expensive telescopes, so it is a rare treat to be able to see one with the naked eye. Comets that can be seen with amateur telescopes and binoculars are considered rare, but this comet, named C/2012 S1, will be visible even during the daytime with the naked eye!

It was first discovered in 2012, far too dim to be glimpsed with any routine technology. However, as it comes closer, it will gradually be able to be seen with amateur telescopes around September of 2013, and by November it will be visible during the day to almost anyone who wishes to look into the sky! The reason it fluctuates in visibility is because of how near it is to our Sun and closer stars. As it's arc nears the Sun, we are able to see it better, and when it moves farther from our solar system, it gradually decreases in visibility.

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