Observing the Unique Comet Lemmon

Astronomy enthusiasts are in for a treat as Comet Lemmon (C/2025 A6) approaches Earth and the Sun, significantly increasing in brightness. This makes it visible with small telescopes and binoculars, and it may soon be visible to the naked eye.

What to Expect from Comet Lemmon?

Several comets appear each year that are visible with binoculars or small telescopes. However, a comet visible to the naked eye occurs only once or twice a decade. Experts predict that Comet Lemmon will reach a brightness of magnitude +3, comparable to the star Megrez in the constellation Ursa Major.

The appearance of a comet differs from that of meteors, as it leaves a hazy trail in the sky. Journalist Kenneth Weaver described seeing a similar comet in 1974, saying, “It looks as if a giant brush has swiftly painted across the black wall of the sky.”

Transformations and Changes of the Comet

Comet Lemmon undergoes noticeable transformations almost daily. As it approaches the inner solar system, its brightness increases and its size gradually expands. It is expected to reach its closest point to Earth on October 21, at approximately 89.2 million kilometers away.

Predicting the comet’s appearance is extremely challenging, as it depends on several factors such as its orbit, angle relative to Earth and the Sun, and the composition of its icy nucleus. Comet Lemmon displays a faint blue gaseous tail, giving it a graceful and direct appearance.

How and When to See Comet Lemmon?

Currently, the comet can be seen in the early morning about 90 minutes before sunrise. It passes through the boundaries of the constellation Ursa Major, making it an excellent target for morning sky observation.

It is best to observe the comet from an area free of light pollution, as it may appear faint or invisible in light-polluted regions.

Transition to the Evening Sky

By October 16, the comet will be visible to sky watchers in the evening. It will appear in the northwestern sky after the evening twilight ends. During this period, the comet will put on its best show, with its brightness expected to reach magnitude +3.3, making it visible to the naked eye in dark skies.

Conclusion

Witnessing Comet Lemmon is a rare opportunity for astronomy lovers and sky watchers. If you are fortunate enough to have a dark sky, you may be able to follow the comet until the first week of November. Although unexpected changes in the comet’s brightness are possible, it has performed well so far and is expected to continue to impress observers in the Northern Hemisphere for a few more weeks.

We recommend finding a viewing location away from light pollution for the best view of the comet. We wish you good luck and clear skies!