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Comet Lemmon Stays Bright as Final Easy Viewing Window Closes

Rising moonlight now limits viewing to a brief evening window ahead of the Nov. 8 perihelion.

Overview

  • Observers report the comet near 4th magnitude after continuing to brighten beyond its Oct. 21 closest approach to Earth.
  • A brief viewing window about 90 minutes after sunset in the northwest offers the best chance, with binoculars favored as the Moon waxes.
  • The comet is crossing Serpens near Arcturus for many northern viewers and is sinking lower each evening, narrowing opportunities.
  • Perihelion occurs Nov. 8, after which models indicate an orbital period of roughly 1,150 years, pointing to a return around 3175.
  • Amateur and professional observers worldwide are still capturing detailed images of the green coma and tail during this extended October show.