المملكة: Jeddah Astronomer: The comet is approaching "Swan" From Earth, it is an ideal opportunity for observation and photography
The second half of this October is witnessing a distinctive astronomical event represented by the approach of comet C/2025 R2 (Swan) to the planet Earth, as it reaches the closest point in its orbit on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at a distance estimated at approximately 0.26 astronomical units, equivalent to approximately 39 million kilometers from Earth.
The President of A beautiful celestial display that can be easily followed from various regions of the Kingdom and the Arab world.
The ideal time to observe the comet
Abu Zahira said: "The best time to observe Comet SWAN will be just after sunset toward the southwestern horizon, when the comet appears low above the horizon"
He added: "Those wishing to view it should choose an open location with a clear horizon, away from buildings, trees and light pollution, to get the best possible view".
He noted that Astronomical calculations indicate a gradual increase in the brightness of the comet during the second half of October, reaching – at best – the fourth or fifth magnitude, which means that it can be seen with the naked eye from dark locations or using small binoculars from inside cities.
Abu Zahira also recommended following up on the comet during the days before and after the day of approach, as its activity may increase after it passes perigee. And perhaps its dusty tail extends over a large distance that can be clearly observed in astronomical images.
He added that the ideal period for observation extends between 30 and 60 minutes after sunset before the comet sets on the southwestern horizon.
Tips for the best photography
With regard to photography, the President of the Astronomical Society advised astrophotographers to use a wide lens ranging between 35 and 85 mm with stabilization. The camera is on a tripod, and long exposures ranging between 10 and 20 seconds are taken to record the comet’s tail.
He explained that the night of October 19 will be an ideal opportunity for photography, as the moon will be below the horizon after sunset, providing a dark sky that allows taking clearer pictures of the comet without the influence of moonlight.
Interpretation of the green color of comets
Abu Zahira pointed out that comets are distinguished It usually has a distinctive green color, explaining that Swan is not an exception, as it is expected to appear in a beautiful green color in astronomical images.
This color – according to Abu Zahra – is due to the presence of carbon dioxide and cyanogen molecules in the gaseous atmosphere of the comet, which interact with ultraviolet rays coming from the sun and produce green radiation.
However, as he pointed out, this color may It is not visible to the naked eye, and usually appears more clearly through telescopes or long-exposure photographs.
Comet Swan is expected to be visible from Saudi Arabia and the rest of the Arab countries after sunset, low above the southwestern horizon.
Although its brightness will be moderate, seeing it with the naked eye may be difficult from urban areas, while it can be seen clearly. Larger using binoculars and small telescopes from locations far from city lights.
The comet does not pose any threat to Earth
Abu Zahra advised those interested in monitoring to use astronomical applications such as Stellarium to accurately determine the comet’s location according to date and geographical location, especially when planning observing or photographing sessions.
The President of the Astronomical Society reassured everyone that the comet is Swan It will not pose any threat to Earth, as it will pass at a very safe distance of about 39 million kilometers, a distance that does not affect the atmosphere, Earth’s gravity, or weather conditions.
He said: "All the comet brings is an opportunity to witness a magnificent celestial display that reflects the beauty of the universe without any negative impact on our planet"
Engineer Majid Abu Zahra concluded his talk by emphasizing that comets remain volatile and unpredictable objects. Their brightness may dim or suddenly increase as a result of changes in the activity of their icy surface, which makes following them always an exciting and mysterious experience at the same time.
He said: “Whatever the outcome of the appearance of comet Swan, its approach this month represents a rare opportunity to follow the spectacle. A wonderful, heavenly one that reminds us of the beauty of the universe and its constant renewal.”
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