While there will be plenty of fireworks later today, it’s nice to know that our very own solar system will be joining in the fun, too—with comet ISON hurting toward the sun at a staggering 48,000 mph.
Unlike the fireworks you’ll launch, this comet isn’t burning—in fact it’s pretty cold. As the comet moves closer to the sun it’ll warm up, its rate of sublimation will increase, and it will appear brighter and its tail longer—and by November you’ll be able to see it with your naked eye. [NASA]
Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and the Hubble Heritage Team
