Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS is gearing up to dazzle sky-watchers worldwide this October potentially.
If the comet survives its perilous journey past the Sun on September 27, it promises to offer a remarkable spectacle from Earth, particularly visible after October 12, Fox Weather reported.
Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, discovered last year, has rapidly become a focal point for astronomers and space enthusiasts. Its imminent close approach to the Sun is a critical moment that will determine its future visibility from Earth.
According to NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick, who observed the comet from the International Space Station (ISS), Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS appears as a "fuzzy star" when viewed without the aid of instruments. This observation was made from the cupola windows, offering a unique perspective on the celestial body as it hurtles through space.
The nuances of the comet can be better appreciated using enhanced viewing techniques. Time-lapse videos with accurate exposure settings have already provided many on Earth with a clearer view of this cosmic visitor, highlighting the halo of gas and dust that typifies such celestial objects.
The comet's trajectory brings it perilously close to the Sun by September 27. This close encounter is pivotal, as it will either spell the end of Tsuchinshan-ATLAS or boost its brightness to levels visible to the naked eye.
NASA’s Gordon Johnston outlines the possibilities following the comet's solar rendezvous: "If this comet survives its passage by the Sun… and if the amount of gas and dust it gives off does not decrease significantly, this might be one of the best comets in a long time." This optimism hinges on the comet's ability to scatter sunlight effectively toward Earth after its closest approach on October 12.
For those eager to catch a glimpse of Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, Johnston advises that the best time to view the comet will be shortly after the evening of October 12, when it hovers above the western horizon post-sunset. The comet will be positioned low at the horizon, at approximately 4 degrees, but will ascend higher each night.
Observers using telescopes or strong binoculars have already spotted the comet in the pre-dawn hours in the U.S., though it remains faint. This visibility will continue until October 4.
The comet will then vanish from the Northern Hemisphere's view for about a week, hidden by the Sun's glare from October 4 through October 11, before reappearing in the evening sky.
Although the comet's survival remains uncertain, the outlook for those eager to observe this cosmic event is promising. The scattering of sunlight after the comet's solar encounter could dramatically enhance its visibility, making it an exciting spectacle for astronomers and casual observers alike.
For best results, viewers should choose locations with minimal light pollution and a clear view of the western horizon. As the comet ascends higher each night, its gradual dimming will demand more careful observation.
Enthusiasts with telescopes or strong binoculars can catch earlier, fainter views before the comet reaches its prime visibility period. This offers a perfect astronomy project for families and communities, bringing people together under the night sky in anticipation of Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS’s grand display.
Gordon Johnston suggests that "If it strongly scatters sunlight towards the Earth it might even be visible in the glow of dusk just after its closest approach to Earth on October 12." This possibility makes the upcoming weeks an exhilarating time for sky-watchers.
As Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS continues its cosmic journey, the Earthly audience waits with bated breath, hoping for a celestial show that could illuminate the early autumn nights with wonder and awe—a reminder of the universe's sublime yet volatile beauty.
