NASA | How to Cook a Comet

The video tutorial explains how to prepare a comet for a solar approach, focusing on sublimation, tail formation, and the effects of solar radiation. It covers the process of sublimation, where the comet's surface material transitions from solid to gas, forming a tail. The tutorial also discusses how ultraviolet light affects the comet's brightness and the dynamics of vapor jets causing rotation. As the comet nears the sun, its tail disappears, and the sun's gravity deforms it. Observing sublimation provides insights into the comet's composition, density, and mass, with the hope that the comet remains intact for future visits.

What is the process called when the material on the comet's surface goes directly from solid to gas?

What is the significance of sublimating water ice into water vapor for the comet?

What happens to the tail of the comet as it gets closer to the sun?

How does the sun's gravity affect the shape of the comet?

What materials should you observe to learn about the comet's composition?