Nishiki-e newspapers which were easy for the general public to understand were printed for a time during the Meiji Era (1868-1912). "Nishiki-e" referees to this traditional Japanese style of multi-color printing using wood-blocks. This is one of the NAOJ's Celestial Curiosities Nishiki-e Collection. It depicts people gazing in surprise at "the Great Comet of 1882" on September 27th, 1882. The text explains the comet's size and angle in detail. It dispels as nothing but "ignorant superstition," such notions as that the comet is "not different from other stars," or "an omen; a star for a good harvest."

Because, unlike other celestial objects, comets appeared suddenly; in times past people thought they were omens for big events. Comets have slightly curved tails, so they were called "rice-stalk stars" and thought to portend a good harvest. On the one hand, this "Comet Picture" printed during the Meiji Era refutes these superstitions and folk lore. But on the other hand, the need to refute them shows that lingering superstitions remained strong and ordinary people probably still lacked scientific understanding.

At the end of November 2013, Comet Ison has its closest approach to the Sun. Because it has the potential to shine brightly, we're paying close attention. Many amateur astronomers are waiting anxiously. By comparing the news about Comet Ison with the "Comet Picture" which provides enlightened information while at the same time announcing "A great star unprecedented in recent years;" we can feel the years of history separating the Meiji Era when archaic Edo Era (1603-1867) beliefs still lingered, and the Heisei (1989-present) Era, when we can enjoy a pure celestial show. (Translator's Note: In addition to the standard Gregorian Calendar, Japan continues to use a reign era calendar. The different eras are defined by changes in the Japanese government, and accompanied by changes in Japanese society.)