A bright comet is about to be visible from Earth for the first time since the Ice Age

A newly discovered comet about to pass Earth has been last seen by a Neanderthal.

Discovered less than a year ago in March 2022, Comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF) will come relatively close to Earth in January and early February, at a distance of 28 million miles from our planet, according to Space.com. Based on the comet’s estimated orbit, experts say this is the first time it has passed through our inner solar system in 50,000 years.

Moreover, the ancient space rock may have been so bright during this visit that it could be seen with the naked eye.

NASA He says that the comet will approach its closest point to the Sun on January 12, and its closest approach to Earth on February 2. If it continues its current direction in brightness, it should be easily visible with telescopes and binoculars—and under dark skies, possibly without any special equipment at all.

This NASA illustration shows the path of comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF) in January for viewers in the Northern Hemisphere. | Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

Viewers in the Northern Hemisphere should be able to see the comet in the predawn morning sky as it moves northwest throughout January. Just don’t expect it to look star-sharp; Its light will be somewhat diffused and may look like a “circular cloud”, Space.org sayswith more brightness and intensity towards its center.

For observers whose view of the comet might be impeded by weather, moonlight, or light pollution, the Virtual Telescope Project is hosting a free live stream of the comet starting at 11:00 p.m. EST on January 12. The project Location as well as YouTube channel.

The best meteor showers to watch in 2023

10 of the most beloved places in Michigan

Why do the stars appear brighter in Michigan winters?