Full Breakdown
Comet 10P/Tempel 2 Set to Appear Over Arizona on July 14, 2026
7/15/2026, 11:19:14 AM
What the Event Is and Why It Matters
Comet 10P/Tempel 2, first recorded by Wilhelm Tempel in 1873, completes an orbit of roughly 5½ years. Its 2026 return marks the first appearance in more than five years, and the timing coincides with a new-moon phase, eliminating lunar glare and making the faint object easier to detect. At an estimated 10 kilometers across, the comet is smaller than Halley’s comet but still capable of producing a visible tail as solar heating vaporizes its icy material.
How to Spot the Comet
NASA’s monthly sky-watching guide advises observers to look about an hour after sunset, aiming southward toward the constellation Capricornus. The comet will appear as a small fuzzy glow with a short, broad, fan-shaped tail. Because it is not visible to the naked eye, binoculars or a modest telescope are required. Dark-sky sites—such as the 22 Arizona locations listed by DarkSky International—offer the best conditions, especially on cloud-free evenings away from city light pollution.
Official Guidance and Resources
NASA provides the primary observational instructions, noting the advantage of the new moon and describing the comet’s appearance. The Old Farmer’s Almanac is cited for confirming the lunar phase. DarkSky International maintains a searchable database of designated dark-sky communities, including 176 sites across the United States, to help stargazers locate optimal viewing spots.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Look for a small fuzzy glow nearby, possibly with a brighter central knot and a short, broad, fan-shaped tail,” — NASA
- “Look south to find the constellation Capricornus, and the comet shouldn't be too far away.” — NASA
- “What to know about new moon, lunar phase The comet will be making its appearance as we get a new moon, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac.” — Old Farmer’s Almanac
- “DarkSky International maintains a website that lists all designated dark sky communities around the world, including 176 locations in the United States.” — DarkSky International
