To see Comet Nishimura (C/2023 P1), here are the key points and tips based on recent observations:
- Best Viewing Time: The comet was most visible in early to mid-September 2023, especially around September 12-13, when it made its closest approach to Earth. After that, it became harder to see as it moved closer to the Sun and lower on the horizon
- Where to Look: Look low toward the eastern horizon in the predawn sky, roughly an hour before sunrise. The comet was located between the constellations Cancer and Leo, near the bright planet Venus
. Later in September, it moved into the western sky at dusk for Southern Hemisphere observers
- Visibility: Comet Nishimura was green in color with a long white or bluish ion tail. It could be seen with binoculars or a small telescope. Under very dark skies, it might have been visible to the naked eye as a faint smudge, but this was challenging due to its low altitude and the brightness of twilight
- Viewing Tips:
- Find a location with a clear, unobstructed view of the horizon.
- Use binoculars or a telescope for the best chance to see the comet’s coma and tail.
- Get up early before dawn to catch it before the sky brightens.
- Using a stargazing app can help locate the comet and Leo constellation.
- Photography with a camera and long exposure can reveal the comet even if it’s hard to see with the naked eye
- Additional Notes: The comet was discovered by amateur astronomer Hideo Nishimura on August 12, 2023. It originated from the Oort Cloud and was expected to reach perihelion (closest to the Sun) on September 17-18, after which it might break up due to solar heating
In summary, to see Comet Nishimura, you needed to observe in early September 2023, before sunrise, looking low toward the eastern horizon near Leo and Venus, preferably with binoculars or a telescope and a clear horizon. After mid-September, it became very difficult or impossible to see from the Northern Hemisphere
