Let's take an easy approach to viewing the sky this week and just talk about comet Pan-STARRS.

If you've already seen it, then you know it's a faint smudge of fuzzy light in the west after sunset.

If you haven't seen it, then you're in for a treat because it's been a while since we've had a comet so easy to pick out of the night sky.

This comet is officially known as comet C/2011 L4 Pan-STARRS, and it was discovered in 2011.

Its current magnitude is around 2.5, so that makes it in the naked-eye range. However, sky conditions such as light pollution and lunar glare can make the comet appear dimmer, so it's best to find a dark, rural spot for the best views of this wandering space ball made up of ice and dust.

You'll need an obstacle-free western horizon to view it, so find an area that is free of trees, power poles and cell towers that might hinder your search. Use the shadow of your home if needed to avoid lunar glare.

Initially, you'll probably need binoculars to see it, but it should be visible with the naked eye once you know exactly where to look.

After sunset, concentrate your search at a spot about 10 degrees above the spot where the sun set. Use a distant landmark as a reference point of where the sun vanished and then wait a while for the sky to darken.

The moon will be out and washing the sky with light, so take your time and slowly sweep with binoculars if you don't see the comet right away. It may take a few passes, but persistence will pay off and reward you with a nice view of the comet.

It's quite a rush when you first see it. I couldn't contain my excitement when I first swept it up in binoculars last Sunday evening.

You can also use the moon as a guide; just sweep down and right of the moon until you are at a point about 10 degrees above the horizon and the comet should pop into view.

There are a lot of photos of this lovely comet online at spaceweather.com/gallery/index.php?title=comet.

If you need a finder chart, then go to cometchasing.skyhound.com/ and follow the instructions there for making your own customized map.

There is a comprehensive list of all the comets that are visible in telescopes on the site, so plan on spending some time familiarizing yourself with them. Pay particular attention to comet ISON.

Comet ISON will be in the news later this year as it's expected to be the comet that will brighten considerably by Christmastime and put on a fabulous naked-eye show.

Finally, you can always use heavens-above.com to find information about comets and other night sky wonders.

Email Becky Ramotowski at Skywatch@beckster.cotse.net. Sky Watch appears Saturdays.