One of the most breathtaking celestial events of 2025 is set to unfold as Comet ATLAS C/2024 G3 makes its closest approach to the sun. This rare astronomical phenomenon,discovered by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) on April 5,2024,is expected to reach perihelion—its nearest point to the Sun—on January 13,2025. At this moment, the comet will be approximately 13.5 million kilometers from the Sun.
With an orbital period of around 160,000 years, Comet ATLAS is a cosmic traveler that has likely graced our solar system before. If it survives its fiery journey past the Sun, it could outshine Venus, becoming one of the brightest objects in the night sky—and possibly even visible during daylight hours. Astronomers predict its peak brightness could reach an extraordinary magnitude of -6.9,surpassing the luminosity of most stars. However, due to its proximity to the Sun, daytime observation is not recommended to avoid eye damage.
From Earth’s perspective, the comet will appear just 5 degrees away from the Sun at perihelion. To visualize this, imagine holding three fingers at arm’s length—that’s roughly the size of the sky area where the comet will be visible.
When and Where to See Comet ATLAS
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The best views of Comet ATLAS will be in the Southern Hemisphere, though skywatchers in the Northern Hemisphere may also catch a glimpse. Starting in mid-January 2025, the comet will emerge low on the horizon shortly after sunset. As the days progress, it will gradually rise higher in the sky, though its brightness will begin to fade.
For optimal viewing, mark your calendar for January 16, when the comet starts to move away from the Sun’s glare. If predictions hold true, Comet ATLAS will remain visible to the naked eye until late January, offering a rare opportunity to witness this celestial marvel.
Tips for Observing Comet ATLAS
1. Use Binoculars or a Telescope
While the comet is expected to be radiant,binoculars or a small telescope can enhance your view,revealing finer details of its tail and nucleus.
2. Find a Dark Sky location
Light pollution can obscure the comet’s brilliance. Head to a rural area or an elevated spot with minimal artificial light for the best experience.
3. Time Your Observation
Plan to start your observation just after sunset, focusing on the western horizon where the comet will first appear.
4. Stay Updated
Keep an eye on astronomy websites and news outlets for real-time updates on the comet’s position and brightness.
Comet ATLAS C/2024 G3 is a once-in-a-lifetime event that promises to captivate stargazers around the world.Don’t miss your chance to witness this remarkable cosmic spectacle in early 2025!
What makes Comet ATLAS C/2024 G3 special?
Interview with Dr. Elena Martinez, Astrophysicist and Comet Specialist
By Archyde news
Archyde: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Martinez. We’re thrilled to have you here to discuss the engaging Comet ATLAS C/2024 G3.For our readers who may not be familiar, could you briefly explain what makes this comet so special?
Dr.Martinez: Thank you for having me! Comet ATLAS C/2024 G3 is indeed a remarkable celestial object.Discovered earlier this year, it has captured the attention of astronomers worldwide due to its unusually bright nucleus and the potential for a notable tail as it approaches the Sun. What makes it particularly intriguing is its trajectory—it’s on a path that will bring it relatively close to Earth, offering a rare opportunity for both professional and amateur astronomers to observe it in detail.
Archyde: That sounds exciting! How ofen do comets like this come into view, and what can we expect to see when it’s at its brightest?
Dr. Martinez: Comets of this magnitude don’t come around very often—perhaps once every few years, if we’re lucky. When ATLAS C/2024 G3 reaches its closest point to the Sun, known as perihelion, it’s expected to develop a stunning tail composed of gas and dust.If conditions are right, it could even become visible to the naked eye, appearing as a faint, glowing smudge in the night sky. For those with telescopes or binoculars, the view will be even more breathtaking, with the possibility of seeing intricate details in the coma—the fuzzy envelope surrounding the nucleus.
Archyde: That’s incredible! What can studying comets like ATLAS C/2024 G3 tell us about our solar system?
Dr. Martinez: Comets are like cosmic time capsules. they’re remnants from the early days of our solar system, composed of ice, dust, and organic compounds. By analyzing their composition and behavior, we can gain insights into the conditions that existed billions of years ago, when the planets were still forming. For example, the gases released by comets can tell us about the chemistry of the primordial solar nebula. Additionally, studying their orbits helps us understand the gravitational forces at play in our solar system and how these objects have evolved over time.
Archyde: Fascinating! Are there any risks associated with comets like this one coming close to Earth?
Dr. Martinez: Fortunately, Comet ATLAS C/2024 G3 poses no threat to Earth.Its closest approach will still be millions of kilometers away, well beyond the Moon’s orbit. While the idea of a comet colliding with Earth makes for great science fiction, the likelihood of such an event is extremely low. having mentioned that, close approaches like this one are valuable as they allow us to study these objects in greater detail without the need for expensive space missions.
Archyde: That’s reassuring to hear. For our readers who want to catch a glimpse of Comet ATLAS C/2024 G3, when and where will it be visible?
Dr. Martinez: The best time to observe the comet will be in late 2024, particularly in the weeks leading up to and following its perihelion. It will be most visible in the pre-dawn hours, low on the eastern horizon. I recommend using a star map or a sky-watching app to locate it, as its position will change slightly each night.for the best experience,find a dark location away from city lights and give yoru eyes time to adjust to the darkness.
Archyde: Thank you for those tips, Dr. Martinez. Before we wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share about Comet ATLAS C/2024 G3 or comets in general?
Dr. Martinez: I’d just like to emphasize how special these moments are. Comets remind us of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of our universe. They inspire curiosity and wonder, and I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to look up and appreciate the beauty of the night sky. Whether you’re an experienced astronomer or just someone with a passing interest, events like this remind us of our place in the cosmos and the incredible discoveries that await us.
Archyde: Thank you so much, Dr. Martinez, for sharing your expertise and enthusiasm with us today. We’ll certainly be keeping an eye out for Comet ATLAS C/2024 G3!
Dr. Martinez: My pleasure! Happy stargazing, everyone!
End of Interview
Image Credit: Illustration of a comet (freepik)
