A comet visible to the naked eye returns near Earth after 50,000 years: here’s how to observe it

Here is how to see this comet, which will pass closest to the Earth on February 1st.

By the editor

Published on 01/27/2023 at 21:51Reading time: 1 min

VMany of us enjoy observing the stars in the sky. This time, it is a comet, C/2022 E3 (ZTF) of its nickname, which is currently visible in the sky. Until the end of January, this comet of about one kilometer in diameter will indeed be observable. It will pass closest to Earth on February 1, at a distance of 40 million kilometers.

How to observe it?

The closer he gets, the more the celestial body will be visible. To hope to see it, it is advisable to move away from sources of light pollution. A clear sky is also preferable. Professional equipment is not necessary, simple binoculars should suffice. Then point them towards the sky between the constellations of Ursa Minor and Ursa Major to try to see the comet.

It should look like a fuzzy dot in the sky, increasing in brightness as it gets closer to Earth.