NASA | What is a Sungrazing Comet?

Sungrazing comets are a special group of comets that come very close to the sun, facing intense solar radiation and tidal forces. Many follow the Kroetz Path, a common orbital route. Comet Lovejoy is a notable survivor of this journey. Comet ISON, with a unique orbit, may escape the solar system. These comets help scientists study solar phenomena, as their tails reveal magnetic fields. The current period of high sungrazing activity offers numerous research opportunities.

What is the minimum distance a comet must reach to be classified as a sungrazer?

• 1,500,000 miles from the Sun

• 500,000 miles from the Sun

• 850,000 miles from the Sun

• 1,000,000 miles from the Sun

What is the Kroetz Group known for?

• Being the largest group of asteroids

• Having comets that orbit the Earth

• Following a similar orbital path near the Sun

• Being the oldest group of comets

Which comet is known for surviving its journey around the Sun?

• Comet Encke

• Comet ISON

• Comet Lovejoy

• Comet Halley

What makes Comet ISON's orbit unique compared to other sungrazers?

• It follows the Kroetz Path

• It orbits the Earth

• It is the largest comet ever observed

• It may escape the solar system

How do sungrazing comets help scientists study the Sun?

• By providing samples of solar material

• By illuminating invisible magnetic fields

• By blocking solar radiation

• By increasing solar activity