Comet Hale-Bopp 1997 C011 / 1168
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Comet Hale-Bopp 1997 C011 / 1168
Comet Hale-Bopp. This was one of the brightest comets of the 20th Century, when it made its closest approach to Earth. It was visible during the first half of 1997. The comet has two clear tails; a white dust tail and a blue ion tail. The dust tail is formed of dust particles blown off the comet by sunlight. The ion tail is made up of glowing ionised gas pushed off the comet by the charged solar wind. Both tails always point away from the Sun. Photographed on 2nd April 1997
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6355267
© Detlev van Ravenswaay
1900s 1997 Astronomical Body Astrophysical Astrophysics Close Closest Comet Cometary Core Halo Ion Tail Jets Night Sky Orbit Orbiting Planetary Science Solar System Star Starry Stars Tails 2 April Morning Sky
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the awe-inspiring beauty of Comet Hale-Bopp, one of the most brilliant comets witnessed in the 20th century. Taken on April 2nd, 1997, during its closest approach to Earth, this image showcases the comet's remarkable features. With its two distinct tails stretching across the night sky, Comet Hale-Bopp mesmerizes viewers with its ethereal presence. The white dust tail gracefully trails behind the comet as sunlight gently blows off tiny dust particles from its core. In contrast, a striking blue ion tail emerges from glowing ionized gas pushed away by the charged solar wind. Both tails consistently point away from our radiant Sun. Against a backdrop of starry wonders and nestled within an orbiting halo-like glow, Comet Hale-Bopp stands as a testament to celestial marvels that have fascinated humanity for centuries. Its historical significance is undeniable; it captivated astronomers and stargazers alike throughout the first half of 1997. Detlev van Ravenswaay expertly captured this extraordinary moment in astronomical history through his lens. This photograph serves as a reminder of our place in the vastness of space and invites us to contemplate our connection to these cosmic wonders. As we gaze upon this stunning image today, we are transported back to that fateful morning sky in April 1997 when Comet Hale-Bopp graced us with its breathtaking presence—a true masterpiece suspended within time and space.
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