Forward scattering is the deflection of waves by small angles so that they continue to move in close to the same direction as before the scattering. It can occur with all types of waves, for instance light, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays as well as matter waves such as electrons, neutrons and even water waves. It can be due to diffraction, refraction, and low angle reflection. It almost always occurs when the wavelength of the radiation used is small relative to the features which lead to the scattering. Forward scatter is essentially the reverse of backscatter.

Comet West, formally designated C/1975 V1, 1976 VI, and 1975n, was a comet described as one of the brightest objects to pass through the inner Solar System in 1976. It is often described as a "great comet."