Comet SWAN 2025: How to See and Photograph This Rare Visitor

By Simon Waldram Photography – Astrophotographer & Workshop Leader

Comet SWAN (C/2025 R2) is making its closest approach this October, offering a rare opportunity for night sky enthusiasts and astrophotographers across the UK and beyond. With dark skies and careful planning, it may even be visible to the naked eye.

Whether you're observing from Bridlington or further afield, here’s everything you need to know to see Comet SWAN, photograph it, and make the most of this fleeting celestial event.

When Is the Best Time to See Comet SWAN?

• Peak Viewing Dates: October 20–23, 2025

• Best Night: October 21 (just after new moon)

• Expected Brightness: Up to magnitude 4 — potentially visible without optics in dark rural skies

• Sky Location: Low on the western horizon after sunset, drifting from Virgo toward Libra, near the bright star Zubenelgenubi

How to Observe Comet SWAN in the UK

• Use Binoculars First: 7×–10× binoculars are ideal for sweeping the sky. A small telescope adds detail but isn’t essential.

• Choose a Dark Site: Find a location with minimal light pollution and a clear view of the western horizon.

• Prepare Your Eyes: Allow 20–30 minutes for dark adaptation. Avoid headlamps and phone screens.

• Track the Comet: Use apps like Stellarium, SkySafari, or TheSkyLive to get real-time rise/set times and brightness forecasts for your location.

• Check Nightly: Comet brightness and position can change rapidly. Always consult a live chart before heading out.

How to Photograph Comet SWAN: Astrophotography Tips

Recommended Equipment

• Camera: DSLR or mirrorless with good low-light performance

• Lens Options:

  • 200–400mm telephoto for isolating the comet

  • 14–35mm wide-angle for landscape compositions

• Tripod: Essential for stability

• Tracking Mount: Strongly recommended for longer exposures and comet-aligned stacking

• Telescope Setup (optional): Use a refractor or Newtonian with tracking and guiding for high-resolution imaging or scientific data collection

Camera Settings for Comet Photography

• Aperture: f/2.8–f/4

• ISO: 1600–3200 (adjust based on your camera’s noise profile)

• Exposure Time:

  • 1–5 seconds without tracking

  • Up to several minutes with tracking

• Focus: Manual focus on a nearby bright star, then reframe

Advanced Techniques

• Stacking: Align exposures on the comet to reveal its tail and coma. Blend with star-aligned frames for artistic balance.

• Foreground Composition: Anchor your image with meaningful landscape elements—cliffs, trees, lighthouses—to tell a story of place and pursuit.

• Tracking Comet Motion: Input RA/Dec coordinates or adjust sidereal rate on your mount to follow the comet precisely.

• Data Logging: Record time, coordinates, and magnitude estimates. Even basic photometry can contribute to citizen science efforts.

Why Comet SWAN Matters

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—Comet SWAN won’t return for over 22,000 years. Whether you’re observing, photographing, or simply taking in the moment, approach it with patience and intention.

If you're heading out to capture it, I’d love to see what you create. Tag me or reach out—let’s make this one count.