Lovejoy Comet: How to See It With the Naked Eye
Glowing green comet is at its peak.
— -- Those who missed catching a glimpse of comet Lovejoy when it made its closest approach to Earth this week still have the once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the glowing green celestial body.
Lovejoy is at its closest approach to Earth this week, some 44 million miles away, providing the best viewing.
Skygazers can still take in the heavenly sight this week in dark, clear and unpolluted skies.
After sundown, look for the comet near the Orion constellation. The comet has a green tint that is even more apparent in the hundreds of amateur snaps that have been posted of it.
It will travel at three degrees per day at its peak, according to Astronomy Magazine, meaning it will noticeably move.
While it may be visible at its peak with the naked eye, it will be faint. Instead, try using binoculars or a telescope to get a closer look at the green cosmic mass.
The comet is named for Australian astronomer Terry Lovejoy, who first spotted it on Aug. 17, 2014, in Birkland, Queensland, Australia.