Great Comets can be one of nature's more spectacular shows in the night sky. Even the most casual stargazers will enjoy observing a comet, even if it means being up in the wee hours before dawn.
Comet tails can be especially spectacular as they can extend tens of millions, or even over 100 million, miles. As seen in the night sky the tails for great comets can extend 30, 40, or occasionally even more degrees across the sky.
Most comets require binoculars or a small telescope to observe. Great comets, which appear on the average about once a decade, require no optical aid at all. These comets usually have tails too long to fit into the field of a telescope, so naked eye views of these comets are best.
To observe a comet, a stargazer should first pay attention to astronomical news media. Comets are transient phenomena that are typically near their peak for only a few weeks. Don't procrastinate.
After learning about a comet, stargazers should learn the time of night and location in the sky the comet will be visible. Stargazers should then go to the darkest clear location available. (Take a companion if security is an issue.) Comet tails are very diffuse, so the dark sky allows observing the spectacular tail.
Great comets are bright and extended enough that no optical aid is needed, however a small telescope or pair of binoculars will offer a closer look at the head of the comet. For comets that are not as bright, stargazers will need optical aid. Those not owning telescope can contact local astronomy clubs to learn about events to observe comets or other objects.
Happy comet hunting.
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