Tsuchinshan-Atlas: A Celestial Spectacle
Image courtesy of : AFP (ETHAN MILLER)
The comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas, also known as C/2023 A3, is gracing the night sky and offering a celestial spectacle for observers worldwide. This comet, originating from the distant Oort Cloud, is on a remarkable journey that brings it close to Earth at a distance of about 70 million kilometers, peaking its visibility between October 7 and 12. Although visible to the naked eye until around October 25, the comet's brightness is best appreciated with binoculars or a telescope.
Sky watchers can look towards the southwest after sunset for the best views, and the comet’s visibility is enhanced under dark skies with minimal light pollution. As it passes, the forward scattering effect makes its dust grains shimmer, adding to its brightness. The comet features a nucleus, a head, and a tail, akin to the famous Neowise comet of 2020. For photography enthusiasts, modern smartphones with night mode or long exposure settings on a tripod can capture stunning images. With a path similar to Hale-Bopp’s and a tail that stretches across the sky, Tsuchinshan-Atlas is a spectacle not to be missed, offering a unique opportunity for both amateur and experienced astronomers.
