MEXICO: After putting on quite a show in the night sky that delighted astronomers of all ages across the world, it is finally time to bid farewell to the comet Lovejoy. This past Saturday night was the last time that sky-watching enthusiasts had the opportunity to witness Comet Lovejoy with the naked eye, and there won’t be another chance to catch this unique comet for the next 8,000 years.
The sad fact is that there won’t be another chance to watch this comet for the next 8,000 years.
Comet Lovejoy’ captured the attention of Sky watchers due to its unique green and fuzzy light. The peculiar greenish nature of this comet played a crucial role in making it a social media sensation, as sky observers everywhere shared the snap shots of this mysterious green dot in the sky during the night.
This greenish nature of Lovejoy is due to the diatomic carbon gas present in it.
Comet Lovejoy was discovered in November 2011 by Australian amateur astronomer Terry Lovejoy. The comet will make its closest approach with sun on January 30, 2015, and soon it will vanish in outer space for another 8000 years.
As per studies, the last time Lovejoy appeared above the earth was around 11,000 years ago. The interval between the visits of Comet Lovejoy is reportedly slowing down due to the gravity of Solar System.
‘Comet Lovejoy’ is now near the star cluster Pleiades. It is going away from your eye’s reach, and you can even see it today night using a pair of binoculars or small telescope. This comet made its closest appearance on January 7, 2015.
