Comet Viewing: How to See the Current Comet with a Smart Telescope

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Comet 24P/Schaumasse to Reach Perihelion in 2026, Offering Viewing chance for Telescope Owners

A periodic comet, 24P/Schaumasse, will reach perihelion – its closest approach to teh Sun – on January 8, 2026, perhaps reaching an integrated magnitude of +9.9. This event presents a unique opportunity for amateur astronomers equipped with a small telescope or smart telescope to observe the celestial visitor.

Did you know? – Comet 24P/Schaumasse was discovered in 1925 by French astronomer Charles Schaumasse. It has a relatively short orbital period of just over 7.4 years, making it a periodic comet.

Tracking 24P/Schaumasse Through the Constellations

Throughout January 2026, 24P/Schaumasse will journey across several prominent constellations. Initially, the comet will be positioned just north of the +5.7 magnitude star 29 Comae Berenices, remaining within the boundaries of Coma Berenices until midday on January 2nd. Following this, it will transition into the constellation Virgo.

The comet will then pass to the north of vindemiatrix (Epsilon (ε) Virginis) before entering Boötes on January 12th, where it will remain for the rest of the month. By late February 2026,24P/Schaumasse will have moved into Serpens Caput,its apparent motion against the background stars slowing down considerably. At that time, it is indeed expected to be located 6° west of Unukalhai (Alpha (α) Serpentis) and have dimmed to a magnitude of +12.4.

Pro tip – When locating the comet,use star charts or astronomy apps to pinpoint its position relative to brighter stars. This will help you confirm your sighting and track its movement.

Brightness and Visibility Considerations

While 24P/Schaumasse begins its observable track at an estimated magnitude of +10.0, it will only brighten slightly to +9.9 at perihelion before fading back to +10.5 by the end of January. This means the comet will remain within range of a small telescope, but will be too faint to be seen with the naked eye or binoculars.

One notable challenge to observing 24P/Schaumasse will be the Moon. Lunar interference is expected from January 1st to 11th and again from January 30th to 31st.Astronomers are advised to prioritize observations between January 12th and 29th for optimal viewing conditions. If observing during periods of moonlight, attempting to view the comet before the Moon rises is