A rare comet can be seen with the naked eye in Chapeco, and it should become brighter

A rare comet was spotted in the early hours of Sunday (29) in Chapeco, west of Santa Catarina. The astronomical phenomenon can be seen with the naked eye until October 6, with brightness expected to increase.

Recorded in the neighborhood of Passo dos Fortes by Chapeco Astronomy Collection. According to Professor Diego Debastiani, the comet is expected to increase in brightness in the coming days.

He added: “Right at the beginning of the observation, it was possible to see the comet's tail clearly on the horizon before the dawn light began to obscure its vision.”

According to Debastiani, the comet has already passed its perihelion, which is the closest point to the sun, and is expected to become brighter in the coming days, as it loses mass and approaches the star.

The professor explained that he uses a tripod camera and long exposure techniques to capture images of the comet.

The observer also commented that such comets are as rare as solar eclipses, and are a unique opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts.

According to Diego, the last notable comet spotted with the naked eye was Neowise, in 2020, although it did not show the same brightness in Brazil as in other parts of the world.

Chapeco astronomers plan to continue observing this phenomenon until October 6, when the comet will be at its highest point before crossing to the other side of the sun and becoming visible at dusk.

See images from the rare comet's record:

This record was set in the neighborhood of Passo dos Fortes by the Chapeco Astronomy Group. – Astronomy Chapeco/Diego Debastiani

The comet must be at its brightest point before crossing to the other side of the sun and becoming visible at dusk. – Astronomy Chapeco/Diego Debastiani

He added: “Right at the beginning of the observation, it was possible to see the comet's tail clearly on the horizon before the dawn light began to obscure its vision.” – Astronomy Chapeco/Diego Debastiani

The professor explained that he uses a tripod camera and long exposure techniques to capture images of the comet. – Astronomy Chapeco/Diego Debastiani

The comet has already passed perihelion, which is the closest point to the sun, and is expected to become brighter in the coming days, as it loses mass and approaches the star. – Astronomy Chapeco/Diego Debastiani

Astronomers in Chapeco plan to continue monitoring the phenomenon until October 6. – Astronomy Chapeco/Diego Debastiani

The astronomical phenomenon can be seen with the naked eye until October 6, with brightness expected to increase. – Astronomy Chapeco/Diego Debastiani

The records are from the Chapeco Astronomy Collection, coordinated by Professor Diego Debastiani.