Astronomy lovers have been waiting with bated breath for what could be the comet of the century. Dubbed ISON, the comet can be seen this week in the morning or the evening sky – especially if you know where to look.
However, lady luck has a role to play in this heavenly encounter. The comet will either be vaporized by its sungrazing trajectory, or it will put up a spectacular show in the December skies, particularly on Friday the 29th of November. Experts will soon know if things look promising.
Observed for the first time in September last year, the comet has been long-awaited as the most spectacular starburst to grace earthly skies in over a hundred years. If the comet does not disintegrate, the fiery ball and its tail could be so vivid that it will also be visible in daylight.
The Finnish Astronomical Association Ursa says that the comet is still difficult to detect at this stage because it is so close to the sun. However, it’s been on US space agency NASA’s radars for some time.
Nice knowing you, Earthlings
According to Ursa spokesperson Anne Liljeström, the best outcome would be if the comet was to break down a little way past the Sun. Then it would appear in its full glory and for a longer period of time, maybe until the end of December. The best moments will likely be between November 29th and December 2nd.
Liljeström points out that Comet ISON can be seen in near space just this once. It has not been here before and it will never return.
ISON is from the Oort cloud, almost light years away, and it has taken some million years to get to here.
”It is indeed a guest from afar”, Liljeström says.
The visit is also of great scientific significance. ISON is made from material that has been in existence on the outskirts of the solar system almost from the time when our solar system was formed. The comet’s trail can be analyzed to find out what existed at the edge of the solar system at that time.
Get out your compass – or just open your eyes
According to Anne Liljeström, stargazers’ first point of reference is the Sun. So it's worth looking towards wherever the sky is light. You may be able to see the comet with the naked eye, but binoculars will certainly help.
”Of course, we hope that it won’t take much to see it – that it can not go unnoticed”, says Liljeström.
According to Liljeström, the comet should appear above the level of the Sun.
Roughly speaking, the sun rises in the morning sky in the southeast. In the afternoon – that is, at sunset – which is in Helsinki at about 4pm, the comet will be visible towards the southwest or west-southwest. Therefore, a compass might be useful.
If it shines so brightly that it’s visible by day, watchers will be able to spot the comet to the north of the Sun, and it shouldn’t take much to see it, claims Liljeström.
The most important thing is to know what time the sun will rise or fall in one’s own locality. ISON can be found in the direction of the Sun’s glow.
Finland is often cloudy during the period between late November and early December but, at least at the moment, the weather seems to favour comet seekers.
