Newly discovered comets visible this month

Astronomers in southern Ontario could be in for a treat before the end of the month.

Two newly discovered comets, C/2025 A6 Lemmon and C/2025 R2 SWAN, will be visible from earth over the next few days.

Lemmon was discovered on Jan. 3 while SWAN was only spotted for the first time on Sept. 10.

Both comets will appear fairly similar with a distinctive green colour and long streaming tails.

SWAN will be closest to the Earth on Oct. 20, while Lemmon will be closet to our planet on Oct. 21.

Lemmon will be most visible to people living in the Northern Hemisphere.

Binoculars are encouraged for anyone eager to spot the cosmic visitor, and it is best to find a dark area away from light pollution. NASA said Lemmon was previously most visible in the morning, but now it is also visible in the evening for people in the Northern Hemisphere. Observers should look just above the western horizon just after sunset for the best chance of spotting it. It may be visible to the unaided eye, but it is more likely to be captured on camera.

CTV News Kitchener view Sabrina Perry was able to snap a picture of the comet.

Exprts say once Lemmon leaves our view, it will stay out of sight for approximately 1,300 years. Meanwhile SWAN is expected to leave our skies for somewhere between 650 and 700 years.

Anyone hoping to catch a glimpse of Lemmon on Oct. 21 may also be in for a special treat as NASA says the Orionid meteor shower will also reach its peak around that time. The Oriniods are considered to be one of the most beautiful showers of the year and are known for their brightness and speed.