Fresh off close brushes with a comet and an asteroid last month,
the planet is up for a close view of the Comet PANSTARRS as it
passes by Earth. It could be visible with the naked eye or at
least with binoculars. Such an opportunity arises only about
once every 5-10 years, according to NASA, though there will be
two such chances this year. This time, the comet in sight is one
discovered in 2011, known officially as comet 2011 L4
(PANSTARRS), named for the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid
Response System in Hawaii that first spotted it. The comet has
been in view for the southern hemisphere for the past year and a
half, but is shifting into view for the northern hemisphere
starting next week. Monday, the comet makes its closest approach
to the sun, about 28 million miles away. That will make it
impossible to spot in the sun's glare for a day or so, but
starting Tuesday, it could be visible on the western horizon
around twilight each night. Catching a glimpse of it might be
tricky given its proximity to the