Comet 220P is shining much brighter than usual. Normally, periodic Comet 220P/McNaught is so faint that it can only be seen with a telescope. However, two unexpected outbursts this year have made it approximately 20,000 times brighter than its typical luminosity, making it visible even with binoculars and long-duration camera exposures.

As anticipated, Comet 220P continues its orbit around the Sun between Mars and Jupiter, with an orbital period exceeding 5 years. The featured long-exposure image, captured 10 days ago from South Africa, showcases the comet's vivid green head and its short dust tail.

The reasons behind Comet 220P's remarkable outbursts remain unknown. Potential explanations include the release of subsurface gases that have accumulated over time or "comet quakes."

In October, Comet 220P will pass relatively close to Earth, approximately one astronomical unit away, before it is expected to rapidly dim as it begins its journey back to the outer reaches of its orbit.

English Translation:

Comet 220P in Outburst

Comet 220P is unexpectedly bright. Normally, periodic Comet 220P/McNaught is so dim that it requires a telescope to be seen. However, two surprising outbursts this year have made it about 20,000 times brighter than usual, allowing it to be visible with binoculars and long-duration camera exposures.

As expected, Comet 220P continues to orbit the Sun between Mars and Jupiter with a period of over 5 years. The featured long-duration exposure, taken 10 days ago from South Africa, shows the comet’s bright green head and short dust tail.

The reasons for Comet 220P’s impressive outbursts are unknown but could be caused by the release of built-up subsurface gas or comet quakes.

Comet 220P will pass about one Earth-Sun distance from Earth in October, after which it is expected to fade quickly as it begins its return to the far part of its orbit.