MARCH 18, 2013
Comet PANSTARRS Just After Sunset
EXPLANATION
Have you seen the comet? As Comet PANSTARRS fades, careful observers—even with unaided eyes—should still be able to find the shedding ice ball on the western horizon just after sunset. Pictured above, Comet PANSTARRS (C/2011 L4) was pointed out from a hilltop last week on First Encounter Beach in Massachusetts, USA. The comet was discovered by—and is named for—the Pan-STARRS astronomical sky survey that discovered it. As the comet now recedes from both the Earth and the Sun, it will remain visible further into the night, although binoculars or a small telescope will soon to be needed to find it.
Image Credit & Copyright
