Comet Tracker For Monday: See Bright Comets As Meteor Shower Peaks

Stargazers, get ready! Monday, October 20 brings a celestial double treat as two brilliant green comets make their closest approach to Earth while the spectacular Orionid meteor shower reaches its peak. This rare cosmic convergence offers Northern Hemisphere observers a chance to witness multiple celestial wonders in one night.

Comet Lemmon has already become visible after sunset, joining forces with comet SWAN in the evening sky. For early risers, both comets will remain visible before dawn, creating a stunning celestial tableau for patient skywatchers. The green-hued comets are expected to reach maximum brightness as they pass near Earth, though visibility will depend on local atmospheric conditions and light pollution.

"It's unusual to have two comets visible simultaneously at peak brightness," explains astronomer Dr. Elena Martinez. "The timing with the Orionid shower creates a perfect opportunity for amateur astronomers to observe multiple phenomena in one observing session."

The Orionid meteor shower, known for its fast and bright streaks, is caused by debris from Halley's Comet. This annual event typically produces 10-20 meteors per hour at its peak, with some fireballs bright enough to cast shadows. This year's coincides with the comets' closest approach, creating a rare trifecta of celestial events.

Best viewing times will be after 10 PM local time when the radiant point (near Orion's sword) rises highest in the sky. For optimal comet observation, find a dark location away from city lights and allow 15-20 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Binoculars will enhance comet viewing, while meteor showers are best seen with the naked eye.

The comets will gradually fade after October 20, but the Orionid shower remains active through early November. For those clouded out on Monday, many astronomy clubs are organizing public viewing events this week.

Read the full article on Forbes.