Between the Gemini meteor show and the asteroid that passed Earth just a few days ago, it's been quite an exciting few months for astronomy geeks. And things will get more interesting with the arrival of the once-in-a-lifetime green comet, he writes "The Guardian"

Known as C/2022 E3 (ZTF), this comet only passes Earth once every 50.000 years – the last time it passed, Neanderthals roamed the earth. The comet has been visible in our skies for the past month, but here's how to catch some of the action as it approaches over the next few days.

A rare encounter with a comet last seen by Neanderthals 500 centuries ago

What is Green Comet?

Comets are giant balls of frozen gas, dust, and rock that orbit the sun. As they travel closer to the sun, bursts of radiation turn their icy exteriors into gas and debris, creating the characteristic long tail. In the case of C/2022 E3 (ZTF), it is this atmosphere – called a 'coma' – that burns around it that glows with a unique green hue.

This rare green comet was first discovered by astronomers in California in March 2022. As it traveled toward us from the farthest reaches of space, it steadily grew brighter and is now visible to the naked eye – at least in dark areas with low light pollution.

Why is it green?

The green glow is not unique to this comet, although it is an interesting feature. The phenomenon is thought to result from the interaction between light from the sun and diatomic carbon. Diatomic carbon is an unstable, gaseous form of the element in which carbon atoms are bonded together in pairs. Scientists say it forms on the comet's head when larger carbon-based substances are broken down by sunlight as the comet approaches the sun.

How can the Green Comet be seen?

To join the fun, head out on February 1 and 2 when the comet is expected to make its closest approach to Earth. According to Stargazing Singapore, the best time to observe is between 5.30am and sunrise, so go to bed early the night before.
A pair of binoculars will be sufficient, except in cloudy weather. Find somewhere dark with minimal light pollution and look to the northeast. Notice a small, faint, green object in the sky. If you plan to shoot, Stargazing Singapore recommends that you bring a wide lens and set up multiple shots to bring out the full details of the amazing comet.

Can I see the comet without a telescope?

Not all comets are visible to the naked eye and it is often difficult to predict how bright a comet will be. But reports suggest that C/2022 E3 (ZTF) has already been spotted by some unequipped observers since the moon set, and will hopefully remain visible when it approaches Earth on Wednesday and Thursday, when it will be 0,28 AU ( 26 million miles) from our planet.

For the best view you need to use binoculars or a telescope.

The weather has been wet and gloomy recently, so some of us may not want to take our chances by going outside in person. Don't worry though – you can still catch the beautiful green comet passing by via a free webcast on this link:

https://www.space.com/comet-c2022-e3-ztf-perigee-feb-1-2023-webcast

A rare encounter with a comet last seen by Neanderthals 500 centuries ago