Comet Hale-Bopp 1997 C011 / 1169
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Comet Hale-Bopp 1997 C011 / 1169
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 6354797
© 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 a core that shines like a distant star amidst a starry night sky, Hale-Bopp displays two distinct tails that gracefully extend away from the Sun. The first tail is composed of white dust particles blown off by sunlight, creating an ethereal trail behind the comet. In contrast, the second tail glows with blue hues due to ionized gas pushed away by charged solar wind. These mesmerizing tails always point in opposite directions from our celestial source. As we gaze at this historical photograph today, we are transported back to a time when astronomers and enthusiasts marveled at this celestial wonder. The halo-like glow surrounding Hale-Bopp reminds us of its significance within our solar system as it orbited through space. Detlev van Ravenswaay's skillful capture allows us to appreciate not only the scientific importance but also the sheer splendor of cometary bodies like Hale-Bopp. This image serves as a reminder of humanity's enduring fascination with astrophysics and planetary science while igniting curiosity about our place in the vast cosmos beyond our own planet Earth.
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