During the pandemic, we – as a human species – learned about the power of connection. We have seen firsthand that what affects one, affects many. People learned to come together and care for each other in ways that were both visible and invisible to others.
In the coming days, people around the world will share another level of connection. Known as the Green Comet, C/2022 E3 (ZTF), or Comet ZTF, this flying ball of ice, rock, dust and gas, known as a “dirty snowball,” will streak across the night sky. Later this week we will also be treated to February’s Full Snow Moon.
The awe of comets
On average, one comet per year is visible to the naked eye. Every now and then we are treated to a particularly bright comet, a so-called large comet. According to NASA, there are currently 3,743 known comets. However, there are probably billions of comets orbiting the Kuiper Belt. The orbital patterns of these short-period comets are predictable, as they take less than 200 years to complete their orbit around the Sun, and have therefore been observed and recorded throughout human history. The Oort Cloud – the most remote region of Earth’s solar system – is home to even more comets. Comets, also called long-period comets, originate in the Oort Cloud and take up to 30 million years to complete their orbit around the Sun.
The Green Comet
So what makes this Green Comet such a unique celestial gift? The Green Comet is a long-period comet that last orbited the sun 50,000 years ago. At that time, much of the Earth was covered in glaciers, and mastodons and woolly mammoths roamed the land. There is recent evidence that early humans and Neanderthals also lived together during this time. Researchers believe the Green Comet actually fell from its orbit, which, if correct, means this is the last chance a human can see it. Assuming those who lived during the last ice age didn’t have the means to view the comet, we could be the only real humans to ever witness the Green Comet streaking across the sky.
The Green Comet will be about 43 million kilometers from Earth on February 1 and 2. For the clearest view, look to the northwestern sky in the early hours before sunrise. Catch a glimpse of the moving green spot with the naked eye, or get a closer look with binoculars or a telescope. Those living in the Southern Hemisphere will get the best views on February 10.
The Full Snow Moon
Coincidentally, as the Green Comet approaches Earth, the second full moon of 2023 makes its debut. The Full Snow Moon, named for the heavy amounts of snow expected in North America in February, will reach its potential on Sunday, February 5 at 1:28 PM EST.
While the Full Snow Moon may dull the light of the Green Comet, we are aware of this gift from the heavens above that connects all beings on this planet – humans and other beings. As you stand outside this week, away from the city lights, observe the sky until the Green Comet and Full Snow Moon make themselves visible. Hold our powerful standing meditation, The dragon stands between heaven and earth, as seen in the video below. Practice with us virtually: Sunday, February 5 at 1:30 PM.
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