What comet was visible in 1997 and what made it significant in the field of astronomy?

Ah, yes, Comet Hale-Bopp graced us with its presence in 1997. This bad boy was impressive mainly because it was one of the brightest comets visible to Earth in the last century. People were all googly-eyed over it, and astronomers were thrilled to bits studying its composition and behavior. It was like the Beyoncé of comets for a hot minute there.