Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, also known as C/2023 A3, has become a stunning sight for observers in the Northern Hemisphere since October 11, 2024. After a long journey that began tens of thousands of years ago, this celestial body recently passed close to the Sun and now returns to Earth. It makes its closest approach to our planet on October 12th, coming within 44 million miles. However, all this week, astronomy enthusiasts can see the comet in the evening sky. This is an excellent opportunity for sky watchers to catch a glimpse of this magnificent visitor.

Comet watching

Astronomy enthusiasts looking to spot the comet should plan to do so shortly after sunset. On October 11, it was visible low on the western horizon, appearing directly above the bright planet Venus. Bob King, associate editor of Sky & Telescope, suggests using binoculars to get a better view of this celestial phenomenon. About 40 minutes after sunset, head to a spot with an unobstructed view of the western horizon. From there, locate Venus and move about two and a half fists to the right to find the comet.

Best days to observe

Tsuchinshan-ATLAS visibility will improve significantly over the weekend. By October 12, the comet has climbed higher in the sky and will now remain visible for longer at dusk. By the evening of October 14, it will be positioned two hands above Venus for viewers in the northern United States. As the week progresses, viewing conditions will become more favorable, even with some moonlight interference.

The origin of comets

This comet was independently discovered by teams from China’s Purple Mountain Observatory and South Africa’s Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System in early 2023. Its nucleus, a solid body composed of ice and dust, originates in the distant Oort Cloud. As it approaches the Sun, the heat causes the ice to evaporate, creating a spectacular tail that can stretch for millions of miles.

The comet is expected to fade and become invisible to the naked eye by the end of October, although binoculars may not detect it until early November. After leaving our vicinity, it will continue its journey into the outer solar system, probably never to return.