The Green Comet is the biggest space phenomenon we are experiencing in 2023. The passage of this gigantic comet by the Earth has left some of the most amazing photographs so far this year, and you can still follow its trajectory through the Sky Map application.
The comet (not to be confused with a meteor) passed very close to Earth last week, but can still be seen at times through telescopes or binoculars. The most powerful image we will have of it will be when it passes very close to the planet Mars, at which time we will be able to have a vivid image in the night sky of the comet next to the planet.
Mars can be seen, many nights of the month, through a telescope. The Red Planet is striking for its color and has enough bounced light for its image to reach Earth clearly. Next weekend (February 10-12) will be a key time to observe it. If the sky is clear, it will be enough to locate it to see it in all its splendor.
But the most striking thing will be that we will be able to see it aligned with the Green Comet. During these days, the comet will pass very close to Mars, almost grazing it according to our vision, so it will not be difficult to observe them together. Still, the brightness of the comet is somewhat difficult to predict. Although so far it has been bright enough to see through binoculars, a telescope may be needed to see the comet when it aligns with Mars.
Tips to see the Green Comet next to Mars
Dan Bartlett, a photographer who specializes in the night sky, gives Insider readers a hint for spotting the comet: “Don’t look for a speck. Look for a blurry, irregular fan-shaped blob”.
It is important to clarify that the comet is fading from Earth’s view, after passing its closest point to Earth on February 2. Therefore, this could be the last chance to see it.
