Why I'm Called - Comet West

I am Comet West.

I am a comet that split near the Sun in 1976.

My name was given in 1975.

I was named by Richard M. West.

My name came about discovered by astronomer Richard M. West.

My name is the surname of discoverer Richard M. West.

An interesting fact is my nucleus split into four fragments near the Sun, creating a spectacular display.