Rare Visit in the Sky: Two Green Comets to Be Seen Simultaneously

Skywatchers in the Northern Hemisphere are witnessing a rare event this week. Two green comets, Comet Lemmon and Comet SWAN, reached their closest approach to Earth at the same time. Comet SWAN passed closest to the planet on Monday, and Comet Lemmon on Tuesday, presenting a unique opportunity for observers.

Scientists say that the occurrence of two active comets being observed simultaneously is "extremely rare."

When and Where Can It Be Seen?

According to astronomers, those who want to see comets should look up at the sky just after sunset.

Comet Lemmon near the northern horizon;

Comet SWAN can be observed in the southwest direction, near the horizon.

Experts emphasize that areas away from light pollution should be preferred and that observing with binoculars will make it easier to spot the greenish glow of the stars.

The Secret to the Green Glow

Both comets originate from the Oort Cloud, a distant region of the Solar System. The ice and gases on their surfaces vaporize as they approach the Sun, and the molecular gases interact with sunlight to create a characteristic green glow.

Scientists state that this color emerges from the ionization of gases derived from carbon and cyan.

The Sky Show Will Last Until the End of the Month

Both celestial bodies will be visible with binoculars until the end of October. However, experts predict that Comet SWAN may lose its brightness more rapidly as it moves away from the Sun. Comet Lemmon will offer sky enthusiasts a better viewing opportunity for a few more weeks.

"Double comet transits like this happen several times a generation. Look to the sky, because nature is putting on its own premiere." — Dr. Eleanor Fawcett, Astrophysicist