Bart's Comet

"Bart's Comet" is the fourteenth episode of The Simpsons' sixth season. It originally aired on the Fox network in the United States on February 5, 1995. In the episode, Bart Simpson accidentally discovers a comet, which is heading towards Springfield. The show's writing staff saw an issue of Time magazine which presented the threat of comets hitting Earth on its cover, and decided to create an episode in a similar vein. John Swartzwelder wrote the script, while Bob Anderson directed. "Bart's Comet" contains references to Where's Waldo? and The Twilight Zone, and received positive commendations from reviewers.

After Bart sabotages Principal Skinner's weather balloon, Skinner decides to punish him by having him help with his amateur astronomy. Bart accidentally locates a comet, and scientists soon discover that it is heading straight for Springfield. Professor Frink plans to launch a missile at the comet, dispelling everyone's fears. However, the missile undershoots the comet and destroys the only bridge out of town.

Homer decides that his family should stay in the bomb shelter that Ned Flanders built, and soon, the rest of the townspeople arrive. Homer is unable to close the door so Ned is kicked out. Eventually, Homer feels guilty and leaves as well, followed by the other townspeople and they all converge on a hill with Ned to await death. As the comet enters the atmosphere, it burns up in the thick layer of pollution over Springfield, leaving the town safe.