Comet Schwassmann-Wachmann 3 returns

Yes, it’s still alive and rolling. This is a famous comet discovered in 1930 that broke apart on it’s return in 1995. It keeps disintegrating and there are over 20 parts identified. The brightest ones are already visible in amateur instruments as they about 9th magnitude now. In the middle of May when it passes near Earth the comet may reach 4th magnitude which is in naked eye range given clear sky and away from city lights. Comet updates and finding charts can be found on NASA and at Sky and Telescope site. Got to plan a night out in mountains. 🙂