Tag Archives: comets

See Comet Lovejoy While You Can

Posted on January 24, 2015 by Alex R. Howe

This is Comet C/2014 Q2 (Lovejoy). Like many comets, it has a bright green color due to the fluorescence of diatomic carbon molecules in its tail, broken off from its surface. And most notably, Comet Lovejoy is visible to the … Continue reading →

Posted in Comets, Stargazing | Tagged , , | Comments Off on See Comet Lovejoy While You Can

The planet that thinks it’s a comet

Posted on March 6, 2013 by Alex R. Howe

With all the talk of comets lately, let’s take a look at what happens when planets start acting like them. But surely, no planet could have a crazy, elongated orbit like a comet, right? They’re too big to get kicked … Continue reading →

Posted in Planets | Tagged , , , , | Comments Off on The planet that thinks it’s a comet

2013: A look ahead

Posted on January 2, 2013 by Alex R. Howe

Happy New Year to all! Traditionally, the beginning of the year is a time to reflect and to look ahead, so here’s a look at what’s coming in 2013. March: Comet PANSTARRS could be the brightest comet since 2008, possibly … Continue reading →

Posted in Current events, General | Tagged , , , , , , | Comments Off on 2013: A look ahead