Comets, Asteroids, and Other Small Solar System Bodies
Comets, asteroids, and trans-Neptunian objects make up the small bodies of the Solar System, with dwarf planets placed in a separate category by the International Astronomical Union. Most asteroids reside in the asteroid belt, many trans-Neptunian objects inhabit the Kuiper Belt, and comets are believed to come primarily from the remote Oort Cloud. Though small in size, these objects attract great scientific interest and can offer spectacular observing opportunities. Some also pass close enough to Earth to be classified as potentially hazardous.
Here, you’ll discover how these cosmic wanderers differ from one another, why astronomers keep such a close eye on them, and which ones are truly worth worrying about — or looking forward to, like Comet C/2025 R3 (PanSTARRS), one of the brightest comet prospects of April 2026 and a possible naked-eye sight later this month.
Comet MAPS Did Not Survive — See What Happens Next
Comet C/2026 A1 (MAPS) broke apart near the Sun, and its leftover dust cloud now appears to be fading. Here’s what happened and what to watch next.
Comet C/2025 R3 PanSTARRS: How to See It in April 2026
Comet C/2025 R3 may become a bright naked-eye comet in April 2026. Learn when, where, and how to see it.
What Comet Is Visible Now? Best Comets to Watch in 2026
Track the most promising visible comets of 2026, including C/2025 R3 (PanSTARRS), and learn when they may be easiest to see.
When Is the Next Asteroid Predicted to Hit the Earth?
Is it likely for an asteroid to hit Earth anytime soon? In this article, we’ll answer the most burning questions about potentially hazardous asteroids.
What Is the Oort Cloud? Location, Size, and Key Facts
What is the Oort Cloud? Learn where it is located, how far it is from the Sun, how big it may be, what it contains, and why scientists think it is the source of long-period comets.
Asteroid Belt Facts: What It Is, Where It Is, and How It Formed
The asteroid belt is the region between Mars and Jupiter that contains millions of rocky bodies. Learn what it is, where it is located, how it formed, what it contains, and who discovered it.
What Cosmic Object Are You?
Take this fun personality quiz and discover whether you’re a comet, a nebula, the Moon, or something even more cosmic.
Giant Comet C/2026 C1 (Tsuchinshan): Will It Be Visible in 2028?
A giant comet, probably the size of a city, could become a notable sky event in 2028. Here’s what astronomers know so far.
What Is a Comet? All About The Cosmic “Dirty Snowballs”
Hairy stars, dirty snowballs, cosmic time capsules – that’s all about comets. Let’s dive into the science and history of comets, uncovering their role in the universe and their impact on us.
Asteroid 2024 YR4: Why It Won’t Hit the Moon in 2032
Asteroid 2024 YR4 will not hit the Moon (or Earth) in 2032. Here’s what NASA and ESA now say about its size, close approach, and why it briefly worried astronomers.