New Year's Comet

After a 13.6 year absence, Comet 8P/Tuttle is once again traveling through the inner solar system.

On Jan. 1 and 2, 2008, it makes its closest approach to Earth - only 24 million miles away.

The emerald-colored comet will brighten to a predicted magnitude of 5.8, visible to the unaided eye from dark-sky sites and a fine target for backyard telescopes anywhere.

Two nights before closest approach, on Dec. 30th and 31st, something extraordinary will happen: Comet 8P/Tuttle has a beautiful close encounter with spiral galaxy M33. The comet and the galaxy may even overlap! This is a can't-miss opportunity for astrophotographers around the world.

Visit http://spaceweather.com for sky maps, photos and more information.