By Gary Becker
Comet ISON disintegrated as it approached its closest distance to the sun on Thanksgiving Day—puff—gone.
Even though the Great Comet of 2013 no longer exists, there are three other interlopers gracing the predawn skies of the northern hemisphere. It just seems to be “raining comets” these days, a much better situation than raining or snowing if you’re into astronomy.
Find out what's happening in South Whitehallfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Two of these comets are strictly binocular, 2P/Encke and C/2012 X1 (LINEAR), while the third, C/2013 R1 (Lovejoy), should be a faint naked eye/easy binocular target this week, moving from Bootes, the Bear Driver, into the star pattern of Corona Borealis, the Northern Crown.
An online map is available.
Comet Lovejoy was discovered on September 7 by Australian, Terry Lovejoy, who resides about 15 miles to the southeast of Brisbane. During the past several weeks his comet has proven to be a real overachiever.
Now that the moon has faded, Comet Lovejoy holds the undisputed title for “Comet to See” since ISON no longer exists.
View Comet Lovejoy between 4:00-5:30 a.m. when it is highest in the sky.
During the first week in December, look NE at 5 a.m. to find the Big Dipper, and follow the arc of the Dipper’s handle to a bright orangey star, Arcturus, in the constellation of Bootes. Scan to the left of Arcturus, across the constellation of Bootes about four binocular fields, and you should come across a fuzzy looking object with a stubby tail. That will be Comet Lovejoy.
If you are observing from a rural locale, lower your binoculars while keeping your gaze fixed in the same direction to see if the comet is visible to the unaided eye.
Find out what's happening in South Whitehallfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.