Artwork of comet approaching Earth
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Artwork of comet approaching Earth
Comet. Illustration of a comet flying towards the Earth. A comet is a ball of ice and dust that orbits the Sun. As it passes near the Sun its surface evaporates, releasing a tail of dust and vapour that can extend for millions of kilometres. The tail always extends in the opposite direction from the Sun, whatever direction the comet is travelling in. Comets are thought to come from a cloud of billions of comets near the edge of the Solar System, called the Oort Cloud. The gravitational effect of passing stars occasionally knocks a few out of the Oort Cloud, sending them on orbits that take them near the Sun, where they become visible
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6444257
© CHRIS BUTLER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Comet Cometary Comets Cosmology
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases an exquisite artwork depicting a mesmerizing scene of a comet hurtling towards Earth. The illustration beautifully captures the essence of this celestial phenomenon, highlighting the majestic nature of comets. Comets, fascinating balls of ice and dust that orbit the Sun, have long intrigued astronomers and enthusiasts alike. As this cosmic wanderer ventures closer to our planet, its surface begins to evaporate due to the Sun's intense heat. This evaporation gives birth to a magnificent tail composed of dust and vapor that stretches across vast distances, sometimes spanning millions of kilometers. Remarkably, regardless of its trajectory through space, this ethereal tail always extends in the opposite direction from our radiant star. Scientists believe that comets originate from a colossal cloud known as the Oort Cloud—a repository housing billions of these enigmatic objects at the edge of our Solar System. Occasionally disturbed by gravitational forces exerted by passing stars, some comets are dislodged from their tranquil abode within the Oort Cloud. These displaced wanderers embark on daring orbits that bring them perilously close to our life-giving Sun—illuminating their existence for us mere mortals to witness. This awe-inspiring artwork not only captivates with its vivid portrayal but also serves as a reminder of humanity's enduring fascination with all things astronomical. It invites us to contemplate both our place in the universe and marvel at these celestial wonders that grace our skies intermittently throughout history.
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