Question: What is the orbital period of the Comet A1 Leonard, which will appear in the evening sky in December 2021?
a) 76 years
b) 100 years
c) More than 200 years
d) None of these
Answer: (c)
Related Facts:-
- On 18 December 2021 Comet A1 Leonard will pass near the earth.
- it was first discovered in January 2021 by the astronomer GJ Leonard.
- Comet A1 Leonard is a long-period comet and it will cross near the earth on 18 December 2021.
- It will reach naked-eye visibility in December 2021, and will make its closest approach to the sun in January 2022.
- The long-period comets have eccentric orbits, as the period’s range is more than 200 years.
- According to NASA the comet, also known as C/2021 A1, will appear brighter as it nears Earth’s horizon during its flyby.
- Agency informed that in this will make it difficult for stargazers to view it.
- Astronomers are hopeful that after the close encounter on December 12, the comet will be visible in the evening sky, especially right after sunset around December 14.