A newly discovered comet, named Comet C/2025 A6 Lemmon, has been visible in the sky for the past few weeks, with now being the optimal time to observe it. Discovered by astronomer David C. Fuls on Jan. 3 through the Mount Lemmon survey, this comet reached its closest point to Earth on Tuesday, initially appearing near the horizon. However, it has since ascended higher in the sky, presenting a great opportunity for viewing.
“Comet Lemmon is currently at its peak visibility,” stated Robert Massey, deputy executive director of the Royal Astronomical Society in London. This comet, if missed now, will not return for another 1,300 years.
To spot Comet Lemmon, observers should look towards the western sky after sunset. By locating the Big Dipper, the first star in the handle of the constellation points to a bright star called Arcturus in the Boötes constellation. Comet Lemmon can be sighted above and to the left of this prominent star.
The comet will gradually move towards the southwestern sky over the next few days while maintaining a similar altitude. Although amateur astronomers have captured impressive images of Comet Lemmon, to the naked eye, it will appear as a fuzzy object in the sky. Unlike previous notable comets like Hale-Bopp and NEOWISE, Comet Lemmon may be challenging to see without binoculars.
Despite its faint appearance, Comet Lemmon has significantly brightened in the past month and is now observable with the naked eye, especially in dark areas. Even individuals in urban settings have reported sightings using binoculars.
This Friday presents a favorable opportunity to observe the comet, as the moon’s illumination is only about nine percent, remaining below the horizon. However, as the moon progresses to the first quarter by Monday, it will become brighter and rise higher in the sky. Comet Lemmon will remain visible in the Northern Hemisphere until mid-November, after which it will descend towards the southwestern horizon.
To assist in locating Comet Lemmon, sky-gazing enthusiasts can utilize apps such as SkySafari and Stellarium.
