Earthlings are waiting for a comet that flew over the Neanderthals 50 thousand years ago

In late January-early February, it can be visible to the naked eye.

Comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF), a kilometer in diameter, will pass at its closest distance from Earth on February 1, and may be visible to the naked eye. However, astronomers have been preparing to observe the tailed guest since Thursday, January 12, when it will pass at a minimum distance from the Sun. Phys.org reports.

C/2022 E3 (ZTF) was discovered by scientists at the Palomar Observatory in California (USA) in March last year when it flew past Jupiter. Its orbit is so extended that from the point farthest from the Sun (it is at a distance of 2800 astronomical units, that is, 2800 times farther than from the Earth to the Sun) it flew to us for 50 thousand (!) Years. That is, the last time on Earth it could be seen only by Neanderthals, who were actively settling at that time in Europe, well, and our other distant ancestors.

If we compare the approaching comet with comet C/2020 F3 (NEOWISE), which could be observed in March 2020, we can assume that it will be less visible in the sky, because it has a smaller diameter: one kilometer versus five for NEOWISE. However, astronomers are reassuring: the small size of the current guest is offset by the fact that it will pass much closer to Earth.

As astronomer Dmitry Plyasov explained to MK, at the moment of the comet’s closest approach to the Earth – it will fly up to us at 42 million kilometers on February 1 – theoretically, the light of the growing moon can interfere with viewing it. Therefore, professional observers are advised to observe the comet C / 2022 E3 (ZTF) a little earlier – January 21-22, when the new moon comes. This is best done with binoculars, pointing the lens between the constellations Ursa Major and Ursa Minor. The comet can also be seen with the naked eye, if for this purpose you specially go out of town, where there is no bright urban illumination.