Comet Alert! A spectacular celestial event is upon us

Comets

Oct 19

Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) is currently just 44 million miles away, making it the brightest comet seen in 27 years! For the best view, look to your western horizon just after sunset throughout October.

To spot the comet, find the bright planet Venus near the horizon. Extend your hand in the iconic Hawaiian shaka sign, with your thumb and pinky finger extended and the rest folded down. This gesture represents an angle of about 25 degrees in the sky—exactly where you’ll find Comet C/2023 A3, positioned 25 degrees to the right of Venus.

Be aware that the comet might be a bit challenging to locate due to the brightness of the moon. To enhance your viewing experience, use binoculars or a camera. For DSLR users, set your camera to ISO 6400 with a shutter speed of 2 seconds. If you’re using a smartphone, activate night mode and select the highest ISO setting available, ideally 800 or greater. A tripod or stable surface will help you capture the best image.

Discovered in January 2023 by the Purple Mountain Observatory in China and independently confirmed by ATLAS South Africa in February 2023, Comet C/2023 A3 originates from the Oort Cloud. These comets are remnants from the early solar system, primarily composed of dust, rock, and ice. As they approach the sun, they emit gases and dust, creating their striking tails. Some comets disintegrate under solar heat, but those that endure can take thousands of years to return. Mark your calendars—the next opportunity to see C/2023 A3 won’t come for another 80,000 years!