NASA has announced that Comet Nishimura, officially named C/2023 P1 Nishimura, may become visible to the naked eye this week. Discovered by amateur astronaut Hideo Nishimura in mid-August, the comet has been increasing in brightness as it travels through the inner solar system. It is angularly close to the Sun, making it visible only early before sunrise or late before sunset. Currently located in the constellation Leo, this comet has an orbit around the Sun that spans 435 years. Comets are icy bodies composed of frozen gases, rocks, and dust remnants from the solar system’s formation, often developing distinctive tails when approaching the Sun.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Comet Nishimura (C/2023 P1 Nishimura): This comet was discovered by amateur astronaut Hideo Nishimura and is currently visible in the Leo constellation. It has a 435-year orbit around the Sun and is notable for its increased brightness.
- Amateur Astronaut: An individual who is not a professional astronaut and participates in space-related activities as a hobby or personal interest, often making significant contributions to space observations and discoveries.
- Inner Solar System: The region of our solar system that includes the planets closest to the Sun, such as Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars. Comets from the outer solar system occasionally pass through this region.
- Constellation Leo: A prominent constellation in the night sky, represented by the shape of a lion. It is one of the zodiac constellations and contains various stars and celestial objects.
- Comets: Comets are celestial objects composed of frozen gases, dust, and rocks that orbit the Sun. They originate from the early solar system and develop tails when they approach the Sun due to the release of gas and dust. These tails make them visible from Earth.
