Near-Earth Comets
Near-Earth comets are icy bodies that travel close to the Earth’s orbit. They originate from the outer regions of the solar system, particularly from the Kuiper Belt and the Oort Cloud. These comets can become visible from Earth when they approach the Sun, causing their ice to vaporize and create a glowing coma and tail.
Scientists study near-Earth comets to understand their composition and behavior, as they can provide insights into the early solar system. Some near-Earth comets may pose a potential impact threat, making monitoring and tracking them important for planetary defense efforts.