Comet Hale-Bopp at T-5 days.
Comet Hale-Bopp was discovered 7 Astronomical Units from the sun in
July 1995. It will eventually reach perihelion on March 31, 1997 and
may become a very bright comet. This acrylic painting completed in
November 1995 shows the comet as it may appear just 5 days before
perihelion from northern latitudes. The comet is visible in the sky
alongside an aurora borealis which was inspired by an overnight flight
to Europe & the view out the north side of the airplane.
Last update: January 29, 1997