Big things are in store for amateur astronomers! This week, not one but two comets will be illuminating the night sky. For stargazers, this particular comet provides an incredibly rare opportunity to see Comet Lemmon, officially known as C/2025 A6. They’ll be able to see Comet SWAN, which is called C/2025 R2. Comet Lemmon will pass closest to Earth on Tuesday. At the same time, Comet SWAN is about to pass its closest point Monday.
Both comets are currently accessible to observers in the Northern Hemisphere, and both can be found with binoculars soon after sunset. Even without a microscope, they are visible as gray, fuzzy patches on the body. Stargazers will want to have their binoculars on hand for an even better experience. Both of these comets will be visible through the end of October!
Discoveries and Characteristics
Comet Lemmon, discovered last January by a telescope devoted to finding hazardous near-Earth asteroids. This comet has been the subject of much excitement because of its close encounter with Earth expected at the end of this week. As it approaches our planet, it will be located low on the northern horizon, making it accessible for viewers during twilight hours.
Back in September, Comet SWAN was a surprise sensation. An amateur astronomer found it by sifting through images taken by a robotic spacecraft operated by NASA and the European Space Agency. Normally, it would be a big deal as this comet would be approaching the sun and becoming more active. As time rolls on, that can and probably will fade a bit.
Even with these differences, both comets are sure to provide stunning sights. Anyone who is willing to step outside and explore our sky will have an experience they will never forget.
Viewing Tips and Best Practices
Whether viewing Comet Lemmon or Comet SWAN, the best viewing conditions for stargazers will be heading outdoors soon after sunset. The two comets will appear low on the horizon: Comet Lemmon will be positioned in the northern sky, while Comet SWAN will be located toward the southwest.
Binoculars will really improve the viewing experience, making it possible for observers to see the comets’ fuzzy fuzziness more distinctly. Astronomy and spaceflight enthusiasts are in for a rare treat tonight! What happens when both comets are visible at the same time… It’s a stargazer’s dream come true.
To increase your chances of seeing these icy bodies, find a dark sky area away from light pollution. Knowing how and where to sit can make all the difference. Clear skies will further enhance visibility, so make sure to factor in weather conditions before reserving a time to view.
Future Observations
Regardless of the fate of their visibility, over the course of May Comet Lemmon and Comet SWAN will continue deeper on their paths through the solar system. Comet Lemmon is on a very close but brief flyby to the Earth. At the same time, Comet SWAN is moving away from the sun, which means its visibility will be continually diminishing.
Astronomy enthusiasts and casual observers alike have a unique chance to witness these fascinating comets during their close encounters with Earth. These two massive celestial objects are both exceptionally bright and spectacularly beautiful. Their presence is perhaps the most powerful reminder that wondrous phenomena await us among the stars.