Overview

• The comet is set to pass about 89–90 million km from Earth on October 21 (roughly 0.6 AU), with scientists indicating it is likely at peak brightness now.
• Observers recorded a temporary drop from magnitude ~4.6 to ~5.7 before a rebound to ~4.5, with some expecting around magnitude 4 at closest approach in dark skies.
• Visibility spans all of Russia and much of the Northern Hemisphere, and at latitudes north of about 50°N it remains above the horizon through the night, experts report.
• Its path carries it near Boötes, slightly above Arcturus around October 21, then into Serpens by October 26, creating evening and pre-dawn viewing opportunities into early November.
• Researchers note clumps and vortices in the tail indicating active outgassing, and confirm an April 16 encounter with Jupiter shortened its return period to about 1,154 years and reduced its aphelion to ~219 AU.