See a green comet blaze over SC for 1st time in 1,350 years

For the first time in 1,350 years, South Carolinians will witness a celestial marvel as Comet Lemmon graces our skies with its vivid green glow. This once-in-a-lifetime event will paint the moonless night sky on October 21 and 22, 2025.

Comet Lemmon, a cosmic visitor that hasn't passed Earth since the 7th century, will offer stargazers across the Palmetto State an unforgettable display. Its distinctive green hue, caused by diatomic carbon gas glowing in sunlight, will create a breathtaking spectacle against the dark canvas above.

"This is truly a generational event," says Dr. Eleanor Vance, astronomer at the Charleston Planetarium. "Our ancestors would have marveled at this same comet in the year 675 AD. To think we're the first generation in over a millennium to witness it again is humbling."

The celestial show doesn't stop there. Late October also brings the Orionid meteor shower, debris from Halley's Comet that will peak around October 21. Sky-watchers might spot up to 20 meteors per hour during the peak nights.

For optimal viewing, astronomers recommend finding a dark location away from city lights after 10 p.m. The comet will appear low on the horizon in the northeastern sky, moving northwest throughout the night.

"Bring binoculars if possible," suggests Vance. "They'll help you see the comet's delicate tail structure. But even with the naked eye, this will be a sight to remember."

Comet Lemmon won't return to our cosmic neighborhood until 3375, making this weekend a rare opportunity for sky-gazers of all ages. Local astronomy clubs are organizing viewing parties across the state, including at Table Rock State Park and Huntington Beach State Park.

For those who miss it, the next bright comet visible from South Carolina isn't expected until 2041. But for now, the green fireball blazing across our skies connects us to generations past and future – a silent reminder of our tiny place in the vast universe.

For detailed viewing guides and meteor shower maps, visit the original coverage at Post and Courier.