From: Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships

A luminous astronomical body, commonly with a long nebulous tail, and following a fixed orbit around the sun.

The fourth Comet (T-AK-269) was launched 31 July 1957 by Sun Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Co., Chester, Pa.; sponsored by Mrs. L. S. Sabin, Jr.; and serves with the Military Sea Transportation Service manned by a civilian crew.