Here's what a comet's 'perfume' would smell like

Here's what a comet's 'perfume' would smell like

Scientists at Switzerland's University of Bern have determined what "Eau de Comet" would smell like — and you should be thankful you can't experience it for yourself.

The scientists announced Thursday that the comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko's "perfume" includes notes of "rotten eggs, horse urine, formaldehyde, bitter almonds, alcohol, vinegar, and a hit of sweet ether," The Associated Press reports. To reach their conclusion, the scientists analyzed chemicals in the gas and dust surrounding the comet via data measured by a spectrometer on the ESA's Rosetta spacecraft.

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Meghan DeMaria

Meghan DeMaria is a staff writer at TheWeek.com. She has previously worked for USA Today and Marie Claire.