Does a comet (zikim) refer to a shooting star or a comet with a tail, and how often must one bless upon seeing it?

BlessingsNatural Phenomena

Synopsis

Rishonim and acharonim debate whether 'zikim' means a shooting star (arrow-like) or a comet with a visible tail. The MB further rules that if the same comet is seen again within 30 days, no new blessing is required; in one night, only one blessing regardless of how many shooting stars appear.

Early Acharonim
Late Acharonim
Lenient
Strict
Lesser cited
Major authority

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