Comet C/2020 E3 (ZTF) is visible in the sky without an instrument. Sublime images of this green comet are already broadcast by astrophotographers. Here are the most spectacular photos of Comet ZTF.
You no longer need a telescope or a telescope to admire it. Since January 19, 2023, comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF) has been visible without instruments. You can use our map to find out when and where to see comet “ZTF” with the naked eye in France. The images obtained using a telescope also make it possible to distinguish a little better the details of this beautiful green and brilliant comet.
Astrophotographers have already outdone themselves to immortalize the celestial object.
C/2022 E3 (ZTF) passed closest to the Sun on January 12. We also speak of perihelion to designate the point of the trajectory of an object at which its distance is minimum with the Sun. At the time of perihelion, comet ZTF was about 160 million km from the star.
Now the comet is moving away from the Sun, but still remains bright. It is heading towards our planet, which it will come closest to on February 2. The object will then be just over 42 million km from Earth.
A funny “fan” tail behind comet ZTF
A very spectacular view of comet ZTF was obtained on January 23rd. It is very surprising, because we can see a sort of “anti-tail” emanating from C/2020 E3 (ZTF). It is actually a optical illusion, explained by the fact that our planet then almost crossed the orbital plane of the comet. Because of this particular perspective on the object, the components of the dusty tail appeared to us from both sides, forming a kind of fan.
In truth, what we see is dust that remains in the wake of ZTF’s path around the Sun. When our planet crosses the orbital plane of the comet, we see some of this drifting dust illuminated by the Sun. This trail appears to emerge from the comet in a direction opposite to its true tails. However, there is no extra queue.
It should be kept in mind that the most sublime images of comet ZTF are obtained with sophisticated instruments, such as telescopes, with very long exposure times. Obviously, if you manage to see the comet for yourself, you shouldn’t expect such a spectacle. Here’s an image closer to what you should see with the naked eye — and it’s already memorable.
The observation of comet ZTF is a unique opportunity. It is very likely that C/2022 E3 (ZTF) will never return to see us, because its orbit is very eccentric. In other words, this comet should go back into space, then never return to the Sun. It is therefore highly recommended to take the chance to observe it before it leaves!
