A recently discovered green comet has likely broken apart after passing close to the sun. The comet, designated C/2025 F2, was visible through telescopes and binoculars for a few weeks with its bright tail but is now fading fast. Scientists say it’s possible that the comet didn’t survive its trip past the sun and will soon disappear into the outer reaches of the solar system.
Comets are remnants from the early days of the solar system, composed of frozen gas and dust. They occasionally pass through the inner solar system, leaving behind a streaming tail. The green comet was discovered by amateur astronomers who spotted it in photos taken by a NASA spacecraft.
Despite its potential to be visible, the comet’s green color would have been difficult to see with the naked eye. Its close approach to Earth is not expected to be as prominent as previous notable flybys like Neowise in 2020 or Hale-Bopp and Hyakutake in the 1990s.
The comet’s first-ever trip past the sun makes it particularly vulnerable to breaking apart, according to astrophysicist Karl Battams. What remains of the comet will eventually re-enter the outer solar system, where its origins are believed to be located.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Technology/wireStory/green-comet-breaking-apart-visible-naked-eye-121015929