WHAT is a Comet?

A comet is an icy, small Solar System body that, when passing close to the Sun, warms and begins to release gases, a process called outgassing. This produces a visible atmosphere or coma, and sometimes also a tail. These phenomena are due to the effects of solar radiation and the solar wind acting upon the nucleus of the comet. Comet nuclei range from a few hundred meters to tens of kilometers across and are composed of loose collections of ice, dust, and small rocky particles. The coma may be up to 15 times Earth’s diameter, while the tail may stretch one astronomical unit. 

HOW to view Comet NEOWISE (C/2020 F3)

The comet is now an evening object, rising increasingly higher above the northwestern horizon. 

For those hoping to see Comet Neowise for themselves, here’s what to do:

• Find a spot away from city lights with an unobstructed view of the sky (Clear view of the horizon).

• Just after sunset, look at the direction of  the Ursa Major constellation.

• If you have them, bring binoculars or a small telescope to get the best views of this dazzling display, naked eye observation is also fine.

WHEN to view Comet NEOWISE 

*Dubai time

WHERE to view Comet NEOWISE 

You can view the comet from anywhere in the UAE as long as you have a clear view of the horizon. The weather also has to be clear for you to be able to spot it (dust and clouds are a couple of things that can obstruct your view).

How to CAPTURE Comet NEOWISE 

Learn these tips and trick on how to photograph comets and meteor showers: https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/news/510/how-to-photograph-a-meteor-shower/ 

For more information:

The exact location and visiblity of the Comet:

https://www.timeanddate.com/astronomy/night/united-arab-emirates/dubai

https://theskylive.com/c2020f3-info

More information:

https://www.nasa.gov/feature/how-to-see-comet-neowise/