Hyderabad | 24 February 2026
Astronomy enthusiasts in Hyderabad and across India are preparing for a rare sky event as bright sungrazer comets are expected to become visible near the horizon over the coming days.
Experts say such sightings are uncommon and may offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for skywatchers, especially if weather conditions remain clear.
What Are Sungrazer Comets?
Sungrazer comets are space objects that travel extremely close to the Sun during their orbit.
Many belong to the Kreutz family of comets, a group believed to have formed from fragments of a much larger comet that broke apart centuries ago.
Because they pass very close to the Sun:
- Some disintegrate due to extreme heat
- Some brighten dramatically
- A few become briefly visible from Earth
Their brightness often increases suddenly, which makes them exciting but difficult to predict.
When to Watch in Hyderabad
Skywatchers in Hyderabad should look toward the horizon during the following windows:
- Early morning: 5:20 AM – 6:15 AM
- Evening: 6:30 PM – 7:15 PM
The comet is expected to appear low in the eastern sky before sunrise and low in the western sky shortly after sunset.
Visibility depends on:
- Clear skies
- Low air pollution
- Minimal cloud cover
Even light haze can reduce clarity because the comet will appear close to the horizon.
Best Viewing Spots in and Around Hyderabad
For better visibility, observers should move away from heavy city lights.
Ideal spots include:
- Open areas on the outskirts of Hyderabad
- Elevated terraces with a clear horizon view
- Less crowded lakeside areas
- Hill points outside the main city
Dark-sky conditions significantly improve the chances of spotting faint celestial objects.
Do You Need Special Equipment?
In rare cases, bright sungrazers can be seen with the naked eye.
However, experts recommend:
- Basic binoculars for clearer visibility
- A small telescope for detailed viewing
- A sky-tracking mobile app to locate the exact direction
Important safety advice:
Never attempt to look for the comet while the Sun is above the horizon. Direct sunlight can cause serious eye damage. Only observe during safe pre-dawn or post-sunset periods.
Why This Event Is Special
Bright sungrazer sightings are rare because:
- Many comets break apart before becoming visible
- Their brightness is unpredictable
- Viewing time is very short
Some sungrazers appear only once in decades. This makes each visible event significant for astronomy enthusiasts.
What to Expect in the Sky
If conditions are clear, observers may see:
- A bright glowing head (coma)
- A thin, faint tail stretching upward
- A soft golden or white glow
The comet may appear faint at first and become clearer as your eyes adjust to the darkness.
Weather Outlook for Hyderabad
Current forecasts for late February in Hyderabad suggest relatively clear evenings, which could improve visibility chances.
However, early morning haze may slightly reduce clarity. Checking local weather updates before heading out is recommended.
Final Reminder for Skywatchers
- Arrive at your viewing location at least 15–20 minutes early
- Allow your eyes time to adjust to low light
- Avoid bright phone screens
- Stay patient — spotting near-horizon objects can take time
For Hyderabad residents, the coming days may offer a rare celestial treat. If skies remain clear, these bright sungrazer comets could provide a memorable night-sky spectacle on 24 February 2026.
Last Updated on: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 3:03 pm by News Proton Team | Published by: News Proton Team on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 3:03 pm | News Categories: Trending