Current Visible Comets in November 2025 and When to See Them

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Comets are some of the most captivating celestial phenomena observable from Earth, offering a fleeting glimpse of cosmic visitors from the depths of our solar system. November 2025 is an exciting period for comet watchers, with several comets visible through binoculars and small telescopes from both hemispheres. This comprehensive guide explores the current visible comets, their visibility periods, and tips on how and when to catch these icy travelers streaking across the night sky.

Table of Contents

Comet C/2025 A6 (Lemmon): Visibility and Viewing Tips

Comet C/2025 A6, popularly known as Comet Lemmon, is currently the brightest comet visible to observers worldwide. It made its closest approach to Earth on October 21, 2025, at a distance of approximately 0.6 AU and reached a peak brightness magnitude of about 4.3. Though it has started to fade as of November 2025, it remains observable with binoculars under dark, clear, and moonless skies from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

The comet passed its perihelion (closest point to the Sun) on November 8, 2025, at magnitude 4.5. Following perihelion, Comet Lemmon is gradually dimming but still appears as a small patch of light with a faint tail. It is conveniently positioned in the evening sky, making it accessible to amateur astronomers and casual skywatchers alike.

To view Comet Lemmon:

  • Look for it in the evening sky after sunset in a location with minimal light pollution.
  • Binoculars or small telescopes enhance visibility, but under ideal conditions, glimpse it with the naked eye.
  • The comet’s tail points away from the Sun, so observing the sky opposite the sunset direction improves chances of spotting it.

Comet Lemmon represents a rare opportunity to observe a comet with a relatively short window of good visibility before it fades further into the distance and darkness. Stay tuned for nightly updates as its brightness and position shift.[1][7]

Comet 210P/Christensen: When and Where to Watch

Comet 210P/Christensen is a dimmer target but expected to be within reach of binoculars by the end of November 2025. It made its closest approach to Earth on November 8, 2025, maintaining a faint magnitude near 10, which makes it a challenge to spot without optical aid.

Key viewing details include:

  • Visible primarily from the Northern Hemisphere.
  • Best seen low on the eastern horizon during pre-dawn hours when the sky is fully dark.
  • Around its perihelion on November 22, 2025, Christensen’s brightness remains steady but limited to telescopic viewing.

Observers looking to catch 210P/Christensen should prepare for early morning sky sessions and use binoculars or telescopes with a wide field of view to scan near the horizon. Dark skies away from city lights will significantly increase the chance of observation.[1]

Comet 3I/ATLAS (C/2025 N1): What to Expect

Comet 3I/ATLAS, also designated as C/2025 N1, is an intriguing visitor expected to be visible through small telescopes in November and December 2025. It reached perihelion on October 29, 2025, at magnitude 9, dimming gradually post-perihelion.

Viewing specifics:

  • Its closest approach to Earth is anticipated on December 19, 2025, at a distance that leads to a faint visibility magnitude of around 13.6.
  • Visible from both hemispheres, but only with telescopes having apertures approximately 80–150 mm or larger.
  • Likely too faint for binoculars but a rewarding target for amateur astronomers with medium-sized telescopes.

This comet’s visibility window offers a good chance to see a visitor from the distant solar system as it fades throughout late autumn into early winter, making it an interesting observational project for those with equipment capable of reaching its faint glow.[1]

Comet C/2024 E1 (Wierzchos): Viewing Timeline

Comet C/2024 E1, named Wierzchos, presents a contrasting visibility timeline spanning late 2025 through early 2026. It will be:

  • Most visible in the Northern Hemisphere before reaching perihelion on January 20, 2026, at about magnitude 8.5.
  • Positioned too close to the Sun to observe during the perihelion passage.
  • Better seen in the Southern Hemisphere after perihelion, possibly visible with binoculars.

During autumn 2025, Wierzchos is faint but potentially visible through small telescopes or binoculars for Northern Hemisphere observers. After its southern shift post-perihelion, it may become a more accessible binocular comet for observers south of the equator.

For those tracking this comet:

  • Patience is key, as visibility shifts hemispheres with time.
  • Optimal viewing occurs under dark skies with minimal atmospheric interference.
  • Tracking apps or star charts can help locate the comet during its transition across the sky.[1]

Comet 24P/Schaumasse: Early 2026 Outlook

Comet 24P/Schaumasse is notable for its close approach to the famous Beehive Cluster (M44) in early November 2025, providing a photogenic opportunity for astrophotographers. The comet will peak in brightness in early 2026, with expectations to be visible through binoculars.

Key points about Schaumasse include:

  • Moderate brightness suitable for binocular viewing when conditions are optimal.
  • Between November 8 and 11, 2025, it will be near a well-known celestial landmark, aiding location.
  • Its brightness will increase in the following months, particularly January 2026.

This comet is a compelling target for those looking to combine comet observation with deep sky object photography and is expected to brighten enough over time to warrant continued monitoring.[1]

Comet 10P/Tempel 2: Mid-2026 Visibility

Looking ahead to mid-2026, Comet 10P/Tempel 2 will be visible from both hemispheres from July through August. It will make its perihelion on August 2, 2026, and its closest Earth approach on August 3, 2026, reaching a brightness around magnitude 8.

Visibility highlights:

  • It will appear in the evening sky after sunset.
  • More prominent in the Southern Hemisphere due to its higher elevation above the horizon.
  • Easily visible with binoculars or small telescopes under dark sky conditions.

Although slightly beyond the scope of immediate 2025 viewing, Tempel 2 represents an excellent comet to anticipate for 2026 enthusiasts, with reliable brightness and a wide viewing window.[1]

Tips for Finding Comets in the Night Sky

Successful comet observation in November 2025 and beyond involves a combination of timing, equipment, sky conditions, and knowledge of comet paths. Here are some practical tips for comet hunters:

  • Use apps such as Sky Tonight or star chart software to locate comet positions in real-time based on your location.
  • Choose nights with clear, moonless skies and minimal light pollution.
  • Binoculars with a wide field of view are invaluable, while small telescopes enhance detail and brightness.
  • Look opposite the Sun in the evening or morning skies depending on the comet’s position.
  • Keep track of perihelion and closest approach dates, as comets are generally brightest and easiest to view near these times.

With patience and preparation, catching a glimpse of these icy visitors can be a rewarding experience, connecting skywatchers to the vast and dynamic solar system.[1]

This article has covered the principal comets visible in November 2025, including C/2025 A6 Lemmon, 210P/Christensen, 3I/ATLAS, and others with notes on their visibility and optimal viewing times. Whether using binoculars or small telescopes, these comets provide wonderful opportunities for observation and astrophotography in the coming weeks and months. Keep monitoring updates and plan your skies accordingly for the best chances to see these fantastic visitors from the outer solar system.

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