Still, considering the comet is unlikely to pass this way again -- at least for next few million years or so -- it might be worth the effort. Green comets are not all that common. "This one was probably born near Pluto, so if you wish to study the chemical mix that this region formed from, this one is a good one to look at," Yeomans said. "It's a fairly bright comet, and it is a new comet, so the usual gang of astronomers will be jumping all over this -- and not just in the visible light, but also in infrared and radio." If you're pining for green, get up around 3:00 a.m. and go outside. Comet Lulin will rise a few hours before the sun and will be about one-third of way up in the southern sky before dawn. On Feb. 16, you can use the bright star Spica in the constellation Virgo as a guidepost. The comet will pass right by it. The morning of its closest approach, Comet Lulin will be a few degrees away from Saturn in the constellation Leo. Related Links: |
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