Comet Lemmon’s Ethereal Tail Captured in Stunning Image from England
A recently captured photograph reveals Comet Lemmon streaking across the night sky above England, showcasing the comet’s delicate, ghostly tail.Astrophotographer Josh Dury captured the image, offering a glimpse of the celestial visitor as it brightens in our skies.
Comet Lemmon, officially designated C/2023 A3, is currently visible to observers in the Northern Hemisphere. Its increasing brightness throughout October presents a unique opportunity for stargazers to witness this cosmic phenomenon before it fades from view.The comet is expected to reach peak brightness later this month, offering optimal viewing conditions for those equipped with binoculars or a telescope.Dury’s photograph serves as a reminder of the beauty and accessibility of astronomical events, and he has authored 52 Assignments: night Photography, a guide offering tips on imaging comets and other deep-sky objects.
Dury’s image highlights the comet’s subtle structure,revealing a faint,diffuse tail extending behind the icy nucleus. This tail is formed as sunlight vaporizes material from the comet’s surface, creating a stream of gas and dust that trails along its orbital path.
Those interested in locating Comet Lemmon can consult a detailed finders guide outlining where and when to look throughout October. Space.com encourages readers to submit their own astrophotography for potential publication, with submissions accepted at spacephotos@space.com.
