Closest Approach of Comet Hale–Bopp

Date: March 22, 1997 • Location: Rome, Italy

Comet Hale–Bopp (pictured) reached its closest approach to Earth at 1.315 AU.

Comet Hale–Bopp is a long-period comet that was one of the most widely observed of the 20th century and one of the brightest seen for many decades.

This milestone marked a defining occurrence in Italy's and world history, leaving an indelible imprint on societal development, international relations, and cultural memory. Its enduring ramifications continue to be examined and commemorated by historians and scholars across the globe.