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Comets and asteroids: What’s the difference?
Comets and asteroids both orbit our sun, but usually reside in different parts of our solar system. And except for a few, they're different materials.
January 31, 2023
Asteroid close encounter January 26: How to watch online
Asteroid close encounter today! Near-Earth asteroid (2023 BU) will pass safely 2,174 miles (3,500 km) away from Earth. Details here on how to watch online.
January 26, 2023
The 5 petals of Venus and its 8-year cycle
Learn about the 8-year cycle of Venus in our sky and the petals of Venus, a rhythmic motion of Venus when viewed from an Earth-centered perspective.
January 22, 2023
The green comet: Comet 2022 E3 ZTF
Learn about the trajectory of the green comet - Comet 2022 E3 ZTF - by the renowned astronomer Guy Ottewell. The comet will be closest to Earth on February 2.
January 17, 2023
What is a variable star?
What is a variable star? It's a star that brightens and dim in a cycle that might last hours, or weeks, or months, or longer. Astronomers know millions!
January 15, 2023
Best of 2023: Night sky events not to miss
Best of 2023: Find the most magnificent night sky scenes that you won't want to miss, chosen for you by the editors of EarthSky. Planets, eclipses and more!
January 1, 2023
Comet C/2017 K2 is closest to the sun Dec 19
Comet C/2017 K2 (PanSTARRS) reaches its closest point to the sun - perihelion - on December 19, 2022. It's now a target for southern skies.
December 18, 2022
Total lunar eclipse on November 8, 2022
It'll be early morning in North America for the November 8, 2022, total lunar eclipse. It's visible across Asia, Australia, the Americas and the Pacific.
November 6, 2022
Taurid meteors in 2022: Watch for fireballs!
The 2 Taurid meteor showers are overlapping around now, making this week a great time to watch. Plus, this year, 2022, there's an extra chance to see fireballs!
November 2, 2022
Partial solar eclipse October 25, 2022: Watch online
A partial solar eclipse on October 25, 2022, will sweep across Europe, western Asia, northeastern Africa, and the Middle East. Watch online here.
October 24, 2022
