People in the southern hemisphere have already been able to observe it. For us, we will have to wait a little longer.
The “comet of the century,” officially named C2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, can be viewed in France between October 11 and 12, 2024, as it approaches the Earth. When we say “closest to Earth,” it is still 71 million kilometers away.
The new comet has passed its closest point to the Sun and is now moving closer to the Earth. C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan–ATLAS) is currently exiting the orbit of Venus and is expected to pass closest to Earth in about two weeks. Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, pronounced… pic.twitter.com/zVHRCAhOrE
— Astronomy Picture Of the Day (@apod) September 30, 2024
It will be visible to the naked eye from dusk, looking toward the west. This phenomenon is made possible by the exceptional brightness of the comet, which reached its closest point to the sun on September 27, according to Science and Life.
The good news is that when the comet is most visible, starting October 11, it will be seen in the west shortly after sunset. It will rise higher in the sky as the night progresses.
© Stuart Atkinson pic.twitter.com/gAlbKp6uvL— Eric Lagadec✨🌍 (@EricLagadec) September 30, 2024
The comet was first detected by telescopes in January 2023 in China and again in February 2023 in South Africa. It entered the solar system after traveling for several million years on an elliptical trajectory, as explained by the Paris Observatory.
Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan–ATLAS) will soon be closest to Earth and could become visible to the naked eye. Everything you need to know to see this comet in one thread👇
© @YBeletsky pic.twitter.com/IEC5G6duFA— Eric Lagadec✨🌍 (@EricLagadec) September 30, 2024
It is important to remember that a comet, made up of rocks and ice, is a dynamic celestial object, unlike an asteroid. The most well-known comet to date is Halley’s Comet, which has been visible from Earth several times, the last being in 1989. Its next appearance is expected in 2061.
C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS: The Comet of the Century
People in the southern hemisphere have already been able to observe it. For us in the northern hemisphere,
we will have to wait a little longer to catch a glimpse of this extraordinary celestial event.
Visibility Timeline
The comet, whose full name is C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, is set to be visible in France between
October 11 and 12, 2024. During this period, the comet will come as close as 71 million kilometers to Earth—a significant distance in astronomical terms, yet close enough for amateur astronomers and stargazers to witness its beauty.
The new comet has passed its closest to the Sun and is now moving closer to the Earth. C/2023 A3
(Tsuchinshan–ATLAS) is currently moving out from inside the orbit of Venus and on track to pass its nearest to the Earth in about two weeks.
— Astronomy Picture Of the Day (@apod) September 30, 2024
Optimal Viewing Conditions
C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS will be observable with the naked eye from dusk, particularly looking towards
the west. This remarkable visibility is due to the comet’s exceptional luminosity, having passed its closest point to the Sun on September 27, 2024.
The comet will be visible to the west early in the night after sunset, climbing higher in the sky
as the days progress but also appearing lower as it travels away.
— Eric Lagadec (@EricLagadec) September 30, 2024
About C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS
This spectacular comet was first observed using telescopes in January 2023 in China, followed by another
sighting in February 2023 in South Africa. After millions of years traveling through space along an elliptical path, it has finally made its way into our solar system.
Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan–ATLAS) will soon be closest to Earth and could become visible to the naked eye. Everything you need to know to see this comet.
— Eric Lagadec (@EricLagadec) September 30, 2024
What is a Comet?
Comets are fascinating celestial objects composed mostly of ice, dust, and rocky material. Unlike asteroids, which are primarily made of rock and metal, comets are known for their spectacular tails that develop as they approach the sun. The best-known comet, Halley’s Comet, has been visible several times throughout history, with its next appearance expected in 2061.
How to Observe C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS
Preparation Tips for Stargazers
- Find a dark location away from city lights to enhance visibility.
- Use a telescope or binoculars for a closer view, but it may be visible with the naked eye.
- Find out the exact time of sunset in your area to time your observation.
- Bring comfortable seating and warm clothing, especially for late-night observations.
- Consider using apps or websites that track comet visibility and provide real-time updates.
Quick Facts About C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closest Approach to Earth | 71 million km |
| Visibility Dates | October 11-12, 2024 |
| First Observed | January 2023 |
| Closest Approach to the Sun | September 27, 2024 |
| Expected Next Passage (Halley’s Comet) | 2061 |
Community Observations and Engagement
Sharing observations of C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS through social media can foster community engagement among stargazers. Consider joining astronomy clubs or online groups to share experiences, photographs, and tips related to this celestial event.
Conclusion
This is an exciting time for both seasoned astronomers and newcomers to stargazing. Prepare your telescopes, grab your binoculars, and mark your calendars for October 11-12, 2024, to witness the magnificent comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS as it lights up our night sky.
