How often does Halley's Comet appear?

Halley's Comet is renowned for its periodic appearances, which occur approximately every 76 years. This interval is notable in the study of comets because Halley's Comet is one of the most famous and well-documented examples of a periodic comet, meaning that its return can be predicted with significant accuracy based on historical observations.

The 76-year cycle allows astronomers and the public alike the opportunity to plan for observing this celestial phenomenon, and it has been recorded that Halley’s Comet has been visible from Earth for centuries. It was last seen in 1986 and is expected to return in 2061. The specific interval of 76 years underscores the comet's relatively short cycle, compared to the much longer cycles associated with other comets, which might take hundreds of years or more to complete one orbit around the Sun. Understanding this period is crucial for those involved in astronomy and space observation.