Comet Hale-Bopp has faded in the past few weeks. Experts disagree on just how bright Hale-Bopp will become. Comet Hale-Bopp still appears to be, however, a very large comet, and is sure to show much activity as it nears the Sun. The comet should reach peak brightness in March 1997. This image was taken on August 18th and shows gas shed from the nucleus of the comet.
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