Rare Double Comet Display Lights Up October Skies
Skywatchers are in for a treat this October as two comets – Swan and Lemmon – make their closest approaches to Earth, offering a rare chance to view these icy visitors. Comet Lemmon,officially designated C/2025 A6,is currently visible in teh morning sky and will reach peak brightness from October 28th to 31st,perhaps visible to the naked eye from dark locations. Shortly after, comet Swan (C/2023 A3) will make its closest approach.
Comets are ancient celestial bodies,remnants from the formation of our solar system billions of years ago,composed of ice,dust,and rock. When they approach the sun, they heat up and release gas and dust, forming a visible atmosphere and often a spectacular tail that can stretch for millions of kilometers. “You don’t see these bodies, and when you do see them, they are often quite shining,” explains expert Pilz.
Lemmon was discovered at the beginning of the year and has been gaining visibility since September, appearing “suddenly” from the direction of the sun. It last visited Earth approximately 1,320 years ago and won’t return for another 1,410 years. Currently, observers can locate Lemmon using the bright star Cor Caroli as a guide, viewing it with binoculars as it rises high in the night sky.
The comet is moving quickly and will pass through constellations including Ursa Major, also known as the Big Dipper. Its closest approach to Earth will be next Tuesday, at almost 90 million kilometers.
comet Swan, discovered in 2023, is expected to be even more spectacular, though its visibility will depend on its behavior as it nears the sun.Both comets offer a unique chance to witness these fleeting cosmic phenomena.
