Scientists discovered a new comet whose trajectory should bring it exceptionally close to Earth next year:
As it flares out of the distant Oort Cloud, the newly discovered comet C/2012 S1 (ISON) appears to be heading on a trajectory that could make for one of the most spectacular night-sky events in living memory.
[…] Astronomers predict that the comet will pass just 1.16 million miles from the Sun as it swings around its perihelion, or closest approach. The close approach will melt enormous amounts of the comet’s ice, releasing dust and gas and forming what should be a magnificent tail.
After it loops around the Sun and forms this tail, the comet should then pass relatively close to Earth—not near enough to cause any worry, but close enough to put on a great show. Viewers in the Northern Hemisphere will get the best view as the comet blooms in the weeks approaching Christmas 2013. The comet could grow as bright as the full moon.
Naturally, I’m totally looking forward to this event and hope it’ll match or surpass expectations, but I also know that a lot of people will think that since it’s coming near Christmas it’s probably a sign of the Second Coming or something.
Well, like Meryl Streep said, Whatever!
Link here.
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