Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, brighter than Venus, to Make Closest Approach on October 12, Visible Through October

Oct 12, 2024, 03:25 AM

Comet C/2023 A3, also known as Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, is set to make its closest approach to Earth on October 12, 2024. This rare comet, last visible 80,000 years ago when Neanderthals roamed the Earth, is expected to be visible to the naked eye in the western sky after sunset. The comet has been observed to have a brightness of -4.0 magnitude, making it brighter than Venus. Astronomers anticipate that it may rival the brightness of Jupiter. Clear skies permitting, the comet will be visible through the end of October. Observers are advised to look for the comet about 30 to 45 minutes after sunset for optimal viewing conditions. The comet's appearance is a significant celestial event, with scientists noting that it won't return for another 80,000 years.