Comet LINEAR WM1 Shines in the South . ... Credit Copyright: Gordon Garradd , Loomberah NSW Australia Explanation: A new comet has brightened unexpectedly and is currently visible to unaided observers of southern skies. Comet C/2000 WM1 (LINEAR) is now reported by some observers to be at third magnitude , making it brighter -- although more diffuse -- than most visible stars. ... NASA Web Site Statements, Warnings, and Disclaimers . NASA Official: Jay Norris. ...