Guide To Space - Where Do Comets Come From? Exploring the Oort Cloud

Guide To Space - Where Do Comets Come From? Exploring the Oort Cloud

Author: 365DaysOfAstronomy.org August 13, 2026 Duration: 11:45

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQtdQ94jy8I

From Oct 17, 2017.

Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain)

Some comets orbit the Sun on a regular basis, but others come in from deep space, a region known as the Oort Cloud. What causes them to make this journey, and will we ever be able to explore the Oort Cloud?

 

Before I get into this episode, I want to remind everyone that it's been several decades since I've been able to enjoy a bright comet in the night sky. I've seen mind blowing auroras, and witnessed a total solar eclipse with my own eyeballs. The Universe needs to deliver this bright comet for me, and it needs to do it soon.

 

[Editor's note: Rich here. I'm spoiled by comet Hyakutake.]

 

By recording this video now, I will summon it. I will create a video that'll be hilariously out of date in a few months, when that bright comet shows up.

 

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Imagine a daily conversation about the cosmos, where each sunrise brings a fresh perspective from a different corner of the globe. That’s the essence of The 365 Days of Astronomy. Born from the spirit of the 2009 International Year of Astronomy, this enduring project has evolved into a genuine community effort, releasing a new episode every single day. You won’t hear the same host each time; instead, the microphone passes to astronomers, educators, enthusiasts, and scientists, each sharing their unique passion and expertise. This structure means the tone and topic can shift wonderfully from one day to the next-you might delve into the mechanics of a black hole on Tuesday and then explore ancient celestial myths on Wednesday. The consistent thread is a shared wonder for the universe, presented in accessible, bite-sized pieces. Managed by Avivah Yamani and edited by Richard Drumm, this daily podcast is a production of the Planetary Science Institute, sustained by listener support. It’s a calendar of the cosmos, offering a daily moment of reflection and discovery that proves you don’t need a telescope to have your perspective shifted. Tuning in regularly builds a habit of cosmic curiosity, connecting the vastness of space to the rhythm of our own days.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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