A comet that hasn’t been seen from Earth in over 400 years will be visible in the Northern Hemisphere this week. The comet, dubbed Nishimura after the Japanese amateur astronomer who discovered it in mid-August, is about half a mile wide and will come within 78 million miles of our planet on September 12, according to NASA.
To see the comet, Northern Hemisphere residents should rise about 90 minutes before sunrise and look for it low in the northeastern sky, near the Leo constellation. The comet will be brightening as it approaches the sun, but will become harder to spot as it descends in the sky.
A quality pair of binoculars is essential for viewing the comet, and knowing the exact location to look is crucial. Paul Chodas, who oversees NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies, recommends using a stargazing app to help you find the comet.
On September 17, Nishimura will venture closer to the sun than Mercury and will exit our solar system, provided it remains intact during its sun-adjacent journey.
So if you’re in the Northern Hemisphere and you’re looking for a rare astronomical treat, be sure to rise early this week and look for Comet Nishimura. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a comet that hasn’t been seen from Earth in over 400 years.
Here are some additional tips for viewing Comet Nishimura:
- Find a clear location with a good view of the eastern horizon.
- Get away from city lights as much as possible.
- Bring a quality pair of binoculars or a telescope.
- Use a stargazing app to help you find the comet.
- Be patient! It may take some time to spot the comet, as it is faint.
I hope you enjoy viewing Comet Nishimura!
