Earth’s first comet visible since 2020 is about to show its face

The astronomical events of 2023 are filled with the classics of these dates. The Full Moon of the Wolf, the name of the star in January and the quadrantides are two of the most anticipated occurrences. However, by this start of the year, the comet is expected to be visible to the naked eye during January or early February. It will be Comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF). An event relevant for astronomers, since according to their data it will not be repeated for another 50,000 years.

Astronomers still do not have complete clarity, but they confirm that it can be seen, at least through a telescope. In any case, there is a possibility that as it approaches the Earth, it can be seen with the naked eye from some points on our planet and in the darkness of the night.

From NASA, they confirm that auspicious dates to see it from Earth will be between January 12th and February 2nd. This second date will be, according to experts, its closest location to our planet: about 42.5 million kilometers.

If it can be seen, it will be the first time we have access to a direct image of this comet. In fact, this is a very recent discovery. In March of that year, astronomers discovered C/2022 E3 (ZTF) orbiting Jupiter. After analyzing its evolution, they found that this will happen before the eyes of the Earth, without presenting any danger to our planet. In fact, it was an event for the researchers. The comet has not been seen with the naked eye since July 2020 with Neowise.

How to see Comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF)?

Always accepting the most optimistic scenario in this story, the inhabitants of the northern hemisphere of the planet will be able to see the comet as early as the end of January. Residents of the southern hemisphere will get their chance in the first phase of February. Since it will be next month when the object is closest to Earth, in the southern part there may be more opportunities. Add to that the fact that you have to wait until dawn in the morning to see it in the northern hemisphere, so the chances of seeing C/2022 E3 (ZTF) are greatly reduced.

Why would it be difficult to see him under these conditions? Comets do not emit their own light. Despite the mystical and bewitching appearance from Earth, they are still balls of ice, gas, stone and dust that reflect sunlight. These items are often referred to as “dirty snowballs”. Under these circumstances the event will not be as bright as Neowise 2020, but it will be of great importance.

However, experts are cautious in their forecasts. Comets usually change trajectory, so as the date approaches, new data may become available.