Comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas is set to illuminate October skies. This celestial spectacle will be visible to the naked eye, though binoculars or telescopes will enhance the view. If you’re eager to catch this rare event, look to the western sky an hour after sunset.
Tsuchinshan-Atlas, officially known as C/2023 A3, is a comet from the distant Oort Cloud. It’s been traveling toward Earth from the outer solar system and will make its closest pass on Saturday. The comet will come within 44 million miles (71 million kilometers) of our planet. After this, it won’t return for another 80,000 years—if it survives its journey around the sun.
What makes comets like Tsuchinshan-Atlas so unique? These icy travelers were formed billions of years ago. As they get closer to the sun, the heat causes them to release gas and dust, forming their iconic glowing tails. Tsuchinshan-Atlas will display a bright, fuzzy appearance, with a tail stretching across the sky.
Earlier, in 2023, a green comet visited Earth for the first time in 50,000 years. Other famous comets include Neowise in 2020, and Hale-Bopp and Hyakutake in the 1990s. However, not every comet is visible. Many either burn up near the sun or are too faint for viewing.
Tsuchinshan-Atlas was discovered last year by observatories in China and South Africa. It will remain visible until the end of October, provided skies are clear. To witness this extraordinary event, venture outside, ideally to an area with minimal light pollution.
Since comets are rare and unpredictable, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Don’t miss your chance to marvel at this bright comet before it disappears for millennia. Clear skies will offer the best view, so keep an eye out for it in the western sky during twilight.
For skywatchers in both hemispheres, this is the perfect time to stargaze. With just binoculars, you’ll have a fantastic view of this comet’s glowing beauty as it passes by Earth.
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