Comet C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) is set to make a notable appearance in the night sky as it travels through the constellation Serpens Caput on the evenings of October 26 and 27. This celestial event occurs just ahead of the comet”s close approach to the sun in early November.
The comet was first discovered on January 3 of this year and has been brightening significantly as it moves closer to the inner solar system. The increase in brightness is attributed to the heat from the sun, which vaporizes the comet”s icy components, creating a gaseous envelope around its nucleus. This process also generates a stunning tail that reflects sunlight beautifully.
As of now, Comet Lemmon is estimated to have a magnitude of approximately +4.3, according to the Comet Observation Database maintained by the Crni Vrh Observatory in Slovenia. This brightness level should make it visible to the naked eye from areas with minimal light pollution. Observers should look towards the western horizon at sunset on October 26 to spot the comet”s faint glow located directly beneath the triangular asterism representing the head of the cosmic serpent.
By the following night, the comet will have traversed the neck of this celestial figure and will be moving towards the constellation Ophiuchus, known as the “snake bearer.” The constellation Serpens is unique in that it is divided into two segments in the night sky, with Serpens Caput on the right side of Ophiuchus and Serpens Cauda, the tail, on the left.
While Comet Lemmon is bright enough to be seen without optical aids from dark locations, utilizing a telescope or binoculars will enhance the viewing experience, allowing enthusiasts to observe the comet”s reflected light more clearly. For those interested in capturing this astronomical event through photography, it may be beneficial to consult guides on comet observation and the best equipment for photographing the night sky.
If readers wish to share their photographs or comments regarding Comet Lemmon, they are encouraged to send their submissions along with their names and locations to [email protected].
