Comet Nishimura – C/2023 P1

Comet Nishimura, officially designated as C/2023 P1, Discovered by Japanese amateur astronomer Hideo Nishimura in August, is now visible in the predawn sky in Sri Lanka. Although the Comet now became a naked eye object with magnitude just less than 5 it is a magnificent object for skywatchers with binoculars and telescopes. Comet Nishimura is currently positioned in the constellation Leo with a striking tail, extending nearly 1 degree in length.
To catch a glimpse of Comet Nishimura, one must venture to a location free from the intrusion of city lights, ensuring a clear and unobstructed view of the horizon. Ideal observation points include areas near the sea or open fields. Of course, a bit of good weather luck is always appreciated
Following shows how the Comet Nishimura travels during next couple of days in September,
Sep 9 : C/2023 P1 will pass a mere 0°33′ from the star Adhafera in Leo
Sep 12: The comet will reach its closest approach to Earth, at a distance of 0.85 astronomical units (AU), and grace the sky with its presence just 1°38′ away from the star Zosma in Leo
Sep 14: Continuing its celestial journey, the comet will pass remarkably close, just 0°6′, to the star Denebola in Leo
Sep  15: Comet Nishimura will  enter the constellation Virgo

This figure obtained from Star Walk 2 software shows the path of the comet up to 21 September

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