A photographer recently captured a stunning image of Comet Lemmon in the night sky over the Yorkshire Dales. Dominic Reardon, a 29-year-old from Arnside, Cumbria, waited weeks for the right moment. He traveled to Muker, North Yorkshire, on October 25 for his chance.
Reardon carefully monitored the weather, hoping for a clear night. He was eager to get a good view of the comet, officially known as C/2025 A6, which was first spotted in January by astronomers in Arizona. This comet won’t return for another 1,300 years, making this opportunity special.
Using a telephoto lens and a star tracker, Reardon took his photos over two hours, from 5 PM to 7 PM. The star tracker helps the camera stay focused on moving objects in the sky, gathering more light and details.
“I had been trying to find a gap in the weather for two weeks,” Reardon said. “Each time I set up, clouds or rain would ruin it. When I finally got a chance, I was excited and relieved.”
To create his final image, he employed a special technique. He photographed a nearby building separately and then blended the images together. The result was a beautiful composition of the comet and the landscape.
The comet made its closest approach to Earth on October 21, about 56 million miles away. Interestingly, it also reached its closest point to the sun recently, aligning with the annual Orionid meteor shower, which is expected to be visible until November 7.
As interest in astronomy grows, many enthusiasts turn to social media to share their experiences. Hashtags like #CometLemmon and #OrionidShower have been trending, with stargazers posting their own photos and observations. According to a recent survey by the Astronomical Society, around 70% of people enjoy stargazing, and events like this comet sighting spark even more interest.
This moment highlights the blend of science and art. For some, it’s simply about enjoying the night sky, while for others, it’s a chance to capture a rare celestial event. Anyone who sees a comet feels a connection to the universe, even if it’s just for a fleeting moment.
For more information on this astronomical phenomenon, check resources from the Royal Astronomical Society and local observatories.
