Comet Leonard will reach its closest point to Earth in December and can be seen with the naked eye from Latin America

Posted:

2 dic 2021 17:09 GMT

It is estimated that the celestial body will pass within 35 million km of our planet.

Comet Leonard (C/2021 A1), discovered earlier this year by astronomer Gregory Leonard, will reach its closest point to Earth on its orbital path – calculated in 80,000 years – next December 12Therefore, it is expected that it can be seen with the naked eye from almost all parts of Latin America, as long as weather conditions allow.

according to Reports, the orb will move to about 35 million km From our planet at 13:54 (GMT); However, experts consider the hours before sunrise to be the most recommended hours to watch.

as expect Scientists, the comet will reach 4 degrees on the luminosity scale, which makes it visible to the naked eye. However, they recommend using binoculars or a primary telescope for optimal enjoyment, as it can be overshadowed by the brightness of other stars in the sky.

After passing Earth, the comet continues its way toward the Sun at a speed of 70.6 kilometers per second, and is expected to reach perihelion – the closest point to the star’s king – estimated at about 90 million km today. January 3, 2022.

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