Solar Wind Strips Comet Lemmon’s Tail in Stunning Photographs

Astrophotographer Brennan Gilmore has captured breathtaking images of the solar wind tearing away a significant section of Comet Lemmon’s tail. This remarkable event occurred as the comet, known scientifically as C/2025 A6 (Lemmon), continues to brighten ahead of its close approach to Earth on October 21, 2025.

As Comet Lemmon moves closer to the Sun, it has noticeably intensified in brightness since its discovery on January 3, 2025. Observers are hopeful that it will become visible to the naked eye in October, just ahead of its perihelion on November 8, 2025, when it will reach its closest point to the Sun in its 1,350-year orbit.

Gilmore’s recent images showcase the comet’s vibrant green coma, illuminated as it passed near the bright star TW Leonis Minoris in the constellation Leo Minor on October 4. The photographs reveal a long, luminous tail extending from the comet’s nucleus, formed as materials ejected from the comet reflect sunlight. This tail is continuously shaped by the solar wind—a steady stream of charged particles emanating from the Sun—which ensures that the tail always points away from the solar body.

On October 2, Gilmore released a stunning 60-minute timelapse documenting a dramatic disconnection event. During this episode, a substantial portion of Comet Lemmon’s tail was buffeted and stripped away by the solar wind. The timelapse was captured using a Takahashi Epsilon 130D Newtonian telescope paired with a ZWO astronomy camera from Cismont, Virginia.

According to the Comet Observation Database (COBS), managed by the Crni Vrh Observatory in Slovenia, recent observations indicate that Comet Lemmon’s brightness has reached +5.1. This level of brightness suggests that the comet is potentially detectable as a dim object with the naked eye from locations with minimal light pollution.

For those interested in observing Comet Lemmon as it continues to brighten throughout October, a finder’s guide is available. Additionally, tips on astrophotography can help enthusiasts capture the beauty of this celestial wanderer before it vanishes from view.

Astrophotography enthusiasts are encouraged to share their own captures of Comet Lemmon with the community. Submissions can be sent to [email protected], along with personal comments and location details.