Neowise comet spotted in the sky over Houston

A newly discovered comet visible to the naked eye has been spotted in the evening skies over the Houston area.

Comet Neowise, discovered in late March, is appearing brighter as it approaches the sun, according to AccuWeather. Researchers say this is the first time the comet will be passing Earth in 6,800 years.

At the moment, it is brighter than Halley's Comet was in 1986.

Stargazers will be able to see it in the evening. After sunset, look for the comet toward the northwest, just below the Big Dipper. If you're looking before sunrise, it will be visible in the opposite direction.

Lyn Ward took video of the comet from northwest Harris County late last week. The streaking tail appears to be similar to condensation trails produced by aircraft engine exhaust.

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Comets are icy, small solar system bodies that warm as they pass close to the Sun. That warming process produces the signature tail as gasses are released.

SEE ALSO: How to spot Neowise, newly discovered comet now visible to naked eye