By Rod Hill on 2013-11-22
Comet ISON has been billed as the "comet of the century." Recent observations indicate the comet is increasing brightness and should be a naked eye object in the coming days. As of November 19th, the comet was less than 43 million miles from the Sun and will be within Mercury's obit on November 23rd.
On November 28th, ISON will make its closest pass to the Sun, coming within 680,000 miles of our solar system's brightest object. At that time, the comet will either break apart because of the Sun's intense energy or survive the journey and continue around the Sun.
Predicting the brightness of a comet is difficult, but scientist believe ISON will reach peak brightness near November 28th. Still, several factors may make viewing difficult. OMSI will host a Comet viewing party Saturday, November 23rd at Milo McIver State Park in Estacada from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. Telescopes will be set up and the public is invited.
Amazing dry streak continues