Heads Up: Newly Found Comet Could Become A Naked-Eye Object Next Month - Comet C/2023 P1 Nishimura

A hyperbolic comet is falling into our solar system. Japanese amateur astronomer Hideo Nishimura discovered it just a few days ago in the constellation Gemini. Although it is relatively dim right now (magnitude 9), Comet Nishimura (C/2023 P1) could soon brighten more than 100-fold to become a naked-eye object in mid-September. Closest Approach to Earth September 13, 2023. Because this is Comet Nishimura’s first trip to the inner solar system, it is extra unpredictable. On Sept. 18th, the comet will make its closest approach to the sun deep inside the orbit of Mercury. Anything could happen when intense sunlight touches the comet’s pristine surface for the first time. Possibilities range from dramatic brightening to a disappointing fizzle. Standard models suggest a peak brightness of 3rd magnitude. This would make it visible to the naked eye from rural areas. Thanks for watching! #cometNishimura #newcomet #nakedeyeobject Images credit: NASA/JPL, ESA, nemesis maturity channel Music credit: YouTube Audio Library Blue Macaw - Quincas Moreira