Our guests have been treated to an amazing night sky these last few nights, with Comet Neowise stealing the show. Located in an area with no light pollution, we've been watching the comet, the Big Dipper, Jupiter and its moons, Saturn and its moons and rings, and shooting stars. Wow.
Comet Neowise is now visible in our solar system for the first time in 6,800 years. Yes, 6,800 years. And, if you miss it, you will have to wait another 6,800 years, unless the sun destroys the comet.
Because of our lack of light pollution, coupled with great weather, we have been able to see the comet with the naked eye after sunset. Find the Big Dipper, and the comet is nearby. The comet looks a little fuzzy with the naked eye, but when you look at it through a telescope or binoculars you will see all the amazing details.
While what we see most clearly is the bright nucleus, and then the tail of dust and gas. It’s hard to believe that the comet is 3 miles in diameter!! It’s the brightest comet in 23 years, and it became more visible each night, peaking tonight on July 22.
Tonight, the comet will be closest to earth and will give us our brightest show…unless, of course, these clouds stay with us tonight. While the comet is closest to earth tonight, it is still 64 million miles away! After tonight, the comet will move away from earth, becoming dimmer and dimmer until it moves out of our solar system…and then returns in 6,800 years.
Catch it while you can…..
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