The Branched Oak Observatory is opening its doors for viewing the Comet of the Decade this Friday and Saturday from 7:00 to 11:00 pm both evenings. Comet A3 will be visible with the naked eye, but you are encouraged to bring a set of binoculars and don’t forget your smartphone. “This is going to be an amazing event,” says Branched Oak Observatory Co-Founder and Executive Director Matt Anderson. “We haven’t seen a comet of this caliber and quality since Hale Bopp, and that was 27 years ago.”
Comet A3 will be visible with the naked eye, but viewers are encouraged to bring a set of binoculars and their smartphones. In addition to viewing the comet, the observatory will explore some of the night sky’s more familiar wonders. Views of Planet Saturn with its brilliant rings and the luminous glow of the Moon will also be able to be seen.
“This will be a once in a lifetime viewing,” says Anderson. “this comet won’t come around for another 80 thousand years.”
There is no charge to attend the event, however donations are welcome to the non-profit observatory. Viewing is weather dependent and food will also be available both nights.