stargazing: comet Neowise and astropoetry

Astropoetry: Haiku

Graceful morning sun
Slumbers at night, a comet
Strikes beyond this world

Frequently Asked Questions About Spotting Comet Neowise

1. How do you find the comet?

Comet Neowise can be found by looking at the northwest sky around thirty minutes after sunset. Make sure that you have an unobstructed view of the sky. In other words, steer clear of skyscrapers, clouds, and light pollution.

Look slightly below Ursa Major and you will find a faint spot. This blurred spot is the comet.

2. Can I see it with the naked eye?

The comet is best viewed with binoculars or a telescope. It is difficult to appreciate with the naked eye.

If you are having trouble spotting the comet, use sky applications to view the star positions on your smartphone. Augmented virtual reality makes spotting the constellations easy.

3. Am I able to take a picture?

If you are thinking of photographing the comet, you should give it a try. My photographer friend in Miami was able to capture the tail. However, my friend in Vermont who lives in a rural area was able to capture the double tail. It is totally possible to take a long exposure photograph of the comet with best results in low light pollution areas. Make sure to have a stable tripod.

4. What camera settings should I use?

Camera settings to start out with: ISO 5000, F2.8, and around 3 seconds exposure time. Preferably, use a prime lens. Some photographers favor a 70 mm lens for comet photography.

Others prefer using their iPhone attached to their telescope.

For more pictures of Comet Neowise, check out NASA’s Heliospheric Observatory.