Monday, October 5, 2026
HomeTechComet that passes Earth every 69 years will be visible this week

Comet that passes Earth every 69 years will be visible this week

Published on

Comet 13P/Olbers, which passes close to Earth every 69 years, can be seen in the skies over Brazil during July. It is expected to reach its maximum brightness on Saturday (6), but it is supposed to approach Earth on July 20, reaching a distance of approximately 72 million kilometers. The last time 13P/Olbers passed was in 1956. The “P” in its name indicates that it is a periodic comet, meaning that its appearance in the sky occurs regularly every 69 years.

The comet's celestial body is mainly composed of ice, rock and dust. It was discovered by German astronomer Heinrich Wilhelm Olbers in 1815, and comet 13P/Olbers was named in his honor. According to scientists, although NASA classifies the comet as a “near-Earth asteroid,” there is no danger of colliding with the planet.

To see the comet, it's important to find a safe spot with little artificial light and a clear horizon. The comet will reach its peak brightness on July 6, but will remain visible in the sky throughout the month. It will appear above the constellation Lince, which can be seen in Brazil a few hours after dusk.

It is essential to look towards the northwest, near the horizon, just after sunset. The exact time the comet will become visible varies depending on the region of Brazil, with the best chances of seeing it in the northern and northeastern regions.

Latest articles

Nikon Re-Reviews Small World in Motion Winner Following AI Allegations

Nikon is taking another look at the winning entry in its Small World in...

United Airlines Targets Delta and American Elite Flyers With Aggressive Status-Match Offer

United Airlines is stepping up its competition with Delta Air Lines and American Airlines...

Extreme Heat Warning Issued as San Diego County Expands Safety Measures and Prepares for Possible Power Shutoffs

San Diego County officials are urging residents to prepare for a prolonged stretch of...

Acer Unveils Swift Air 16 and Ultralight Swift Blade 14 at IFA 2026

Acer expanded its thin-and-light laptop portfolio at IFA 2026 with two new models: the...

More like this

Nikon Re-Reviews Small World in Motion Winner Following AI Allegations

Nikon is taking another look at the winning entry in its Small World in...

United Airlines Targets Delta and American Elite Flyers With Aggressive Status-Match Offer

United Airlines is stepping up its competition with Delta Air Lines and American Airlines...

Extreme Heat Warning Issued as San Diego County Expands Safety Measures and Prepares for Possible Power Shutoffs

San Diego County officials are urging residents to prepare for a prolonged stretch of...