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Don't miss out! Spotting the green comet

09:00
27 January 2023

Don't miss out!
Spotting the green comet

Comet flying through spaceThis month's green comet will look similar to this, Comet C/2022 Q2 LOVEJOY which passed by in 2014.

The green comet will soon make its closest approach to Earth and is already visible to the naked eye.

Comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF) is set to reach its perigee during the opening days of February, making February 1-3 your best chance of seeing the once-in-a-lifetime event with your own eyes.

For those without equipment, be sure to head outdoors just after sunset and look towards the northern horizon.

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In areas with little light pollution and favourable weather conditions you should be able to see the green glow unaided.

The green comet's historyread more

Anyone with a telescope available can already find the comet in the night sky. It is currently blazing by the Ursa Major constellation at a magnitude of 5.7.

By late January, and early February, as the comet approaches Earth it will appear close to the Camelopardalis constellation.

Unfortunately, the year’s next full moon occurs on February 4, meaning that moonlight will obscure the comet somewhat.

Days after perigee the comet will remain visible as it departs our region of the galaxy. Moving further east in the northern horizon and appearing close to Mars from our vantage point.

If weather conditions mask the sky or you are unable to find the comet yourself a number of astronomical agencies are hosting live streams of the event including the Virtual Telescope Project.

Check in regularly with the WeatherRadar to find a perfect night to search the skies!

Ryan Hathaway
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