How to Watch Newly-Discovered Comet SWAN25F
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Comet-SWAN25F-040825-198b62fe5c1d4288ac687d10e34feb1b.jpg)
Comet SWAN25F, a newly-discovered celestial wonder, is currently making its way through our solar system, offering stargazers a chance to witness a spectacular sight in the night sky. The comet was first spotted by Australian amateur astronomer Michael Mattiazzo in late March and has been capturing attention ever since. Photographed with a bright green coma and a thin tail, the comet has been steadily brightening, making it an exciting target for skywatchers around the world.
Discovered by Mike Olason with a magnitude of 10.6 on April 3 in Tucson, Arizona, Comet SWAN25F has now reached an 8.4 magnitude, although it is not visible to the naked eye yet. Given the temporary name by the Minor Planet Center, SWAN25F is expected to remain low above the northeast horizon in the early morning hours in the coming weeks as it continues to increase in brightness. The comet is predicted to reach its peak brightness in early May 2025.
As of April 8, Comet SWAN25F is observable in the sky and is anticipated to reach perihelion, its closest point to the sun, on May 1, 2025. While it has grown significantly brighter since its discovery, it may still require telescopes or large binoculars (around 10x50mm) for viewing. Following perihelion, the comet will only be visible from the Southern Hemisphere as it reaches a 5th magnitude, becoming potentially visible to the naked eye without aids.
To catch a glimpse of Comet SWAN25F, skywatchers will need binoculars, particularly bigger ones like 10x50mm, to enhance visibility. Clear skies are essential for viewing, so hoping for favourable weather conditions is crucial. Avoiding rain, fog, or haze that could obstruct the view is important. Additionally, the phase of the moon can affect visibility, with a new moon on April 27 providing optimal dark skies for observing the comet.
For the best chance of spotting Comet SWAN25F, enthusiasts in the Northern Hemisphere should direct their gaze towards the northeastern horizon. Visible approximately one hour before sunrise, the comet will initially be located near Scheat, a prominent star of the Great Square of Pegasus, before moving towards the constellation Andromeda. Utilising tools like the Star Walk app can aid in locating the comet in the sky.
Skywatchers are advised to find a dark location away from city lights to minimise light pollution and enhance the viewing experience. With Comet SWAN25F set to brighten further in the coming weeks, astronomers and space enthusiasts alike are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to witness this remarkable cosmic event unfold in the night sky.