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For many, Comet PANSTARRS’ northern sky debut tonight

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March 12, 2013

Comet PANSTARRS has now been sighted in Northern Hemisphere skies, and, for many, its northern sky debut will come tonight, when the comet appears near the young moon in the western twilight sky. Be sure to look on March 12 and March 13, and bring binoculars if you have them. The moon and comet will appear low in the glow of evening twilight, and may – or may not – be visible to the unaided eye. The comet’s fan-shaped tail will be pointing away from the sunset direction. More about the comet and moon on March 12.

Everything you need to know: Comet PANSTARRS in March 2013

Big sun-diving Comet ISON might be spectacular in late 2013

This photo was taken by EarthSky facebook friend Garry Snow outside of San Antonio, Texas, on March 11, 2013, Many thanks for the photo, Gary! Click here for a larger view.

Bottom line: NASA chart shows Comet PANSTARRS near the young moon on March 12 and 13. Look west after sunset.

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March 12, 2013

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Deborah Byrd

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Deborah Byrd (asteroid 3505 Byrd) helps edit EarthSky.org and is a frequent host of EarthSky videos. Deborah created the EarthSky radio series in 1991 and founded EarthSky.org in 1994. Prior to that, she had worked for the University of Texas McDonald Observatory since 1976, and created and produced their Star Date radio series. She has won a galaxy of awards from the broadcasting and science communities, including having an asteroid named in her honor in 1990, a Public Service Award from the National Science Board in 2003, and the Education Prize from the American Astronomical Society in 2020. A science communicator and educator since 1976, Byrd believes in science as a force for good in the world and a vital tool for the 21st century. "Being an EarthSky editor is like hosting a big global party for cool nature-lovers," she says.