How Fast is Halley’s Comet Traveling?

Halley’s Comet travels through space at an incredible speed that varies depending on its position in relation to the Sun. On average, it moves at about 54,000 kilometers per hour (approximately 33,554 miles per hour) as it approaches the Sun, but can reach speeds of up to 240,000 kilometers per hour (about 149,000 miles per hour) at its closest approach, known as perihelion.

This speed is due to the gravitational pull of the Sun, which increases the comet’s velocity as it draws closer. Halley’s Comet follows an elliptical orbit that takes about 76 years to complete, during which it experiences significant changes in speed and position, highlighting the dynamic nature of celestial bodies in our solar system.

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