Emerald-green Comet Lemmon to be visible from Earth on October 22 – Here's how to see it

Comet Lemmon Brightens: Comet C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) brightens in northern skies, becoming visible with binoculars and expected to reach naked-eye visibility by October 21. (Image: Victor Sabet/Julien De Winter)

Astronomy fans are preparing for a rare sky event. Comet Lemmon, discovered by the Mount Lemmon Survey in Arizona, will be visible on October 22. Will the comet be bright enough to see with the naked eye? Experts suggest it could reach magnitude +3.5 to +4.4 under ideal skies. Observers are eager to spot its growing coma and tail.

When and Where to Spot Comet Lemmon

Comet Lemmon will pass approximately 55.4 million miles from Earth. It will appear low in the northwest sky after sunset. Small telescopes or binoculars can show its tail clearly. Visibility may be brief as the comet moves quickly across constellations. The comet will pass through Bootes, Ursa Major, and Canes Venatici until mid-October.

Meteor Shower and Celestial Alignment

The Orionid meteor shower will peak on October 21–22. Under dark skies, rates could reach 20 meteors per hour. Comet SWAN (C/2025 R2) will also be visible nearby. This alignment offers the rare chance to see two comets. Skywatchers may witness meteors and comets in the same night.

Tips for Skywatching Success

Observers should avoid city lights to see the comet clearly. Allowing eyes to adjust to darkness enhances visibility of faint structures. The thin crescent moon after October 13 will minimise interference. Clear skies after sunset offer the best chance to observe Lemmon.

Comet Lemmon will reach perihelion on November 8. Its closest distance to the Sun will be 49.25 million miles. October 22 remains the prime date for viewing.