Comet PTF14A-E is a celestial spectacle that has been captivating astronomers and sky-watchers alike since its discovery in 2014. The comet, officially known as C/2014 E2, is a periodic comet that orbits the Sun every 5.5 years. It was first spotted by the Palomar Transient Factory (PTF) survey in California, and has since been observed by numerous observatories around the world.
Comet PTF14A-E is a particularly interesting comet because of its unusual orbit. It is a long-period comet, meaning that it takes more than 200 years to complete one orbit around the Sun. This makes it a rare sight in the night sky, and one that is worth taking the time to observe.
The comet is also notable for its bright and colorful tail. The tail is composed of dust and gas that is released from the comet as it approaches the Sun. This material is heated by the Sun, causing it to glow brightly in the night sky. The tail can be seen from Earth with the naked eye, and is often described as a “river of stars”.
The comet is also known for its bright nucleus, which is the solid core of the comet. This nucleus is composed of ice, dust, and rock, and is estimated to be about 1.5 kilometers in diameter. As the comet approaches the Sun, the nucleus heats up and releases gas and dust, creating the comet’s tail.
Comet PTF14A-E is an exciting celestial event that is worth taking the time to observe. It is a rare sight in the night sky, and one that is sure to captivate sky-watchers of all ages.
FAQs
Q: When was Comet PTF14A-E discovered?
A: Comet PTF14A-E was discovered in 2014 by the Palomar Transient Factory (PTF) survey in California.
Q: How often does Comet PTF14A-E orbit the Sun?
A: Comet PTF14A-E is a long-period comet, meaning that it takes more than 200 years to complete one orbit around the Sun.
Q: What is the nucleus of Comet PTF14A-E composed of?
A: The nucleus of Comet PTF14A-E is composed of ice, dust, and rock, and is estimated to be about 1.5 kilometers in diameter.
Q: Can Comet PTF14A-E be seen with the naked eye?
A: Yes, the comet’s tail can be seen from Earth with the naked eye, and is often described as a “river of stars”.
