Prepare for an Astronomical Showcase!

Mark your calendars! This October, skywatchers are in for a cosmic treat as not one, but two dazzling comets will grace the night sky—just in time for a meteor shower! Expect a stunning display on peak nights when both comets are visible simultaneously.

Meet Comet SWAN R2: A Cosmic Wonder!

Comet C/2025 R2, affectionately known as SWAN R2, was unveiled to the world on September 12 by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory. This long-tailed beauty, discovered by Ukrainian astronomer Vladimir Bezugly, has a mind-boggling orbit of 22,554 years! Its tail is so long it could stretch the length of five full moons!

When to Catch SWAN R2?

Currently skirting close to the sun and mostly visible from the Southern Hemisphere, SWAN R2 is expected to make a spectacular approach to Earth on October 21, coming within just 0.27 astronomical units—about a quarter of the Earth-sun distance. It could shine with a magnitude of 4, making it theoretically visible to the naked eye, especially in darker skies!

Meteor Shower Alert: Orionids Incoming!

Adding to this celestial event, Earth will pass through debris from the SWAN R2 comet around October 4-6, potentially triggering a unique meteor shower. The highlight, however, is the Orionid meteor shower peaking on October 20-21, where you could witness about 20 shooting stars an hour! The new moon on October 21 means clear skies and enhanced visibility.

Introducing Comet Lemmon: A Cosmic Companion

But that’s not all! Comet C/2025 A6, or Lemmon, discovered in January, will also be nearest to Earth on October 21. At a distance of around 0.60 AU, it could match SWAN R2 in brightness—making both comets potentially visible to stargazers.

Can't-Miss Skywatching Nights!

The prime nights for observing these comets, assuming they shine as predicted, are October 20-23. With two comets streaking across the sky alongside the meteor shower, it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for comet enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike. Don't miss your chance to witness this cosmic extravaganza!