Halley's Comet is the only known short-period comet that is consistently visible to the naked eye from Earth, appearing every 72–80 years, though with the majority of recorded apparitions (25 of 30) occurring after 75–77 years. It last appeared in the inner parts of the Solar System in 1986 and will next appear in mid-2061. Officially designated 1P/Halley, it is also commonly called Comet Halley, or sometimes simply Halley. Halley's periodic returns to the inner Solar System have been observed and recorded by astronomers around the world since at least 240 BC, but it was not until 1705 that the English astronomer Edmond Halley understood that these appearances were re-appearances of the same comet.
Eighth recorded perihelion passage of Halley's Comet
Halley's Comet is the only known short-period comet that is consistently visible to the naked eye from Earth, appearing every 72–80 years, though with the majority of recorded apparitions (25 of 30)...
Historical Significance
Halley's Comet is the only known short-period comet that is consistently visible to the naked eye from Earth, appearing every 72–80 years, though with the majority of recorded apparitions (25 of 30) occurring after 75–77 years.
Events Before
Earliest known date on a Maya inscription, possibly depicting the enthronement of King Siyaj Chan K'awiil I of Tikal (St
Earliest known date on a Maya inscription, possibly depicting the enthronement of King Siyaj Chan K'awiil I of Tikal (Stela 29 Tikal) [1]
Roman emperor Maximianus introduces tetrarchy (rule of four people) elevating Galerius and Constantius Chlorus to Caesar
Roman emperor Maximianus introduces tetrarchy (rule of four people) elevating Galerius and Constantius Chlorus to Caesar
BC The oldest known Roman temple to Venus is founded, initiating the institution of Vinalia Rustica (grape harvest festi
BC The oldest known Roman temple to Venus is founded, initiating the institution of Vinalia Rustica (grape harvest festival)
Events After
St Gaius ends his reign as Catholic Pope
St Gaius ends his reign as Catholic Pope
St Marcellinus begins his reign as Catholic Pope
The pope is the bishop of Rome and the head of the worldwide Catholic Church. He is also known as the supreme pontiff, Roman pontiff, or sovereign pontiff.
San Marino, one of the smallest nations in the world and the world's oldest republic still in existence, is founded by S
San Marino, one of the smallest nations in the world and the world's oldest republic still in existence, is founded by Saint Marinus
First official Roman edict for persecution of Christians issued by Emperor Diocletian at Nicomedia, ordering all churche
First official Roman edict for persecution of Christians issued by Emperor Diocletian at Nicomedia, ordering all churches to be closed and scriptures burnt
On a voyage preaching the gospel, Saint Fermin of Pamplona is beheaded in Amiens, France
On a voyage preaching the gospel, Saint Fermin of Pamplona is beheaded in Amiens, France
More from the 290s
Roman emperor Maximianus introduces tetrarchy (rule of four people) elevating Galerius and Constantius Chlorus to Caesar
Roman emperor Maximianus introduces tetrarchy (rule of four people) elevating Galerius and Constantius Chlorus to Caesar
St Gaius ends his reign as Catholic Pope
St Gaius ends his reign as Catholic Pope
St Marcellinus begins his reign as Catholic Pope
The pope is the bishop of Rome and the head of the worldwide Catholic Church. He is also known as the supreme pontiff, Roman pontiff, or sovereign pontiff.
Earliest known date on a Maya inscription, possibly depicting the enthronement of King Siyaj Chan K'awiil I of Tikal (St
Earliest known date on a Maya inscription, possibly depicting the enthronement of King Siyaj Chan K'awiil I of Tikal (Stela 29 Tikal) [1]
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened on April 20, 295?
- Halley's Comet is the only known short-period comet that is consistently visible to the naked eye from Earth, appearing every 72–80 years, though with the majority of recorded apparitions (25 of 30) occurring after 75–77 years. It last appeared in the inner parts of the Solar System in 1986 and will next appear in mid-2061. Officially designated 1P/Halley, it is also commonly called Comet Halley, or sometimes simply Halley.
- Why is Eighth recorded perihelion passage of Halley's Comet significant?
- Halley's Comet is the only known short-period comet that is consistently visible to the naked eye from Earth, appearing every 72–80 years, though with the majority of recorded apparitions (25 of 30) occurring after 75–77 years.