1995    Comet Hale-Bopp is discovered; it will become visible to the naked eye nearly a year later.

1997    Comet Hale-Bopp: Observers in China, Mongolia and eastern Siberia are treated to a rare double feature as an eclipse permits Hale-Bopp to be seen during the day.

1997    The Comet Hale-Bopp has its closest approach to Earth.

1997    Comet Hale-Bopp is seen passing over perihelion.