Central Albertans are in for a treat starting this evening as the C/2022 E3 (ZTF) comet will be visible for the first time in approximately 50,000 years.

While the name might be a mouthful, what sets this comet apart is it's distinct greenish colour trailed by two tails. 

It is believed this is the last time in history it will be visible.

The relatively newly discovered comet was first spotted by astronomers in March 2022, NASA says the comet will make its closest approach to the sun on Thursday night.

"Comets are notoriously unpredictable, but if this one continues its current trend in brightness, it'll be easy to spot with binoculars, and it's just possible it could become visible to the unaided eye under dark skies." 

Skygazers  should be able to spot the comet using binoculars pointed to the Northeastern sky during most of January and without any equipment at the start February.