The green comet is just a weak smudge now

In summary, the comet was first observed a few weeks ago and was long and bright, but now it is barely visible with a 12X, 60mm binocular. According to 9-news, NASA says the comet will be visible in the Southern Hemisphere in early February and will be closest to Earth on February 2 before heading back into space. Its tail always points away from the sun, so its visibility on Earth may vary. Although it will not be around for long, its position in relation to Earth and the Sun has changed since it was first observed two weeks ago. Despite the hype, the comet was only a faint smudge due to the light from streetlights and the cold temperature.
  • #1
swampwiz
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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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  • #2
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.
 
  • #3
Whew. You had me worried for a minute there. Thought you were talking about this guy
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  • #4
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.
 
  • #5
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.
 

FAQ: The green comet is just a weak smudge now

What is the green comet?

The green comet, often referred to as Comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF), is a comet that was discovered in early 2022. It's known for its greenish hue, which is caused by the presence of diatomic carbon (C2) that emits green light when it is excited by the ultraviolet radiation from the Sun.

Why is the green comet just a weak smudge now?

The green comet appears as a weak smudge now because it is moving away from the Earth and the Sun. As it travels farther into the outer regions of the solar system, it receives less sunlight, causing its brightness to diminish significantly. Additionally, the comet's material is dispersing, making it less dense and more diffuse.

Can the green comet still be observed through telescopes?

Yes, the green comet can still be observed through telescopes, but it requires more powerful equipment due to its reduced brightness. Amateur astronomers with high-quality telescopes and clear, dark skies may still be able to spot the comet, but it will appear as a faint, diffuse object.

What causes the green color of the comet?

The green color of the comet is primarily caused by the presence of diatomic carbon (C2) in its coma, the cloud of gas and dust surrounding its nucleus. When diatomic carbon is exposed to the ultraviolet light from the Sun, it becomes excited and emits green light, giving the comet its distinctive hue.

Is the green comet's appearance a common event?

Comets with a greenish hue are not extremely rare, but they are not very common either. The green color is relatively unusual and is a result of specific chemical compositions in the comet's coma. While there are many comets that pass through the inner solar system, only a few exhibit this distinct green coloration.

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