Two Newly Discovered Comets Will Streak Across the Skies This Month. Here’s How to See Them

Two new comets, Lemmon and SWAN, are set to grace the night skies this month. Comet Lemmon, discovered in March 2022, is expected to reach its closest approach to Earth on May 23rd, while Comet SWAN, discovered in April 2020, will make its closest pass on May 19th. Both comets will be visible in the northern hemisphere, with Comet Lemmon appearing in the southwestern sky and Comet SWAN in the northeastern sky. Stargazers will need clear skies and binoculars or telescopes to catch a glimpse of these celestial visitors. Though the comets are not expected to be as bright as some previous notable comets, they still offer a unique opportunity for astronomers and casual sky-watchers alike to witness the natural spectacle of these icy objects hurtling through the solar system. As they approach the Sun, the comets' icy cores will release gas and dust, creating the iconic tail that makes comets so visually striking.