Halley’s Comet May Have Earlier Recognition

Why this is here: The comet of 1066 was visible in China for more than two months, with its brightest point occurring on April 22nd of that year.

Professor Simon Portegies Zwart and Lewis suggest Halley’s Comet was possibly recognized centuries before Edmond Halley. Their research indicates Eilmer de Malmesbury, an English monk, may have identified the comet as a recurring celestial object in the 11th century. The study stems from historical accounts by William de Malmesbury, which researchers believe connect to earlier comet sightings.

Eilmer reportedly observed the comet in both 989 and 1066, recognizing them as the same object. The 1066 appearance became a symbol of the year, even appearing on the Bayeux Tapestry depicting the Norman conquest of England. Historical records show the comet was visible in China for over two months, peaking in brightness on April 22, 1066.

Researchers found references to comet sightings five times in the centuries surrounding this period. While the work challenges the comet’s current naming, it acknowledges that medieval accounts sometimes included exaggeration or misinformation. Portegies Zwart plans to continue researching periodic comets with a historian.