Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, recently discovered and originating from the Oort Cloud, made its closest approach to the sun on September 27, 2023. Visible from the Northern Hemisphere until early November, this celestial event won't recur for another 80,000 years. Enthusiasts in California have captured stunning images of the comet, visible shortly after sunset in the western sky.
A celestial spectacle, Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, is currently visible in the western sky shortly after sunset, captivating viewers across Northern California. This rare comet, which last visited Earth during the Neanderthal era, offers a unique opportunity for skywatchers before it disappears for another 80,000 years.
Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS was discovered in 2023 and is believed to have originated from the distant Oort Cloud. It was named after observations made by China's Tsuchinshan Observatory and the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) in South Africa. After making its perihelion or closest approach to the sun, the comet became visible in the Southern Hemisphere and has now moved to the Northern Hemisphere, where it will remain observable through early November. The comet is visible to the naked eye, though binoculars enhance the viewing experience.
For the best comet viewing experience, observers should look towards the western sky 30-45 minutes after sunset. Locations away from city lights offer the clearest view. The comet will progressively get higher and fainter in the sky, making early viewings preferable. Notably, the visibility will be optimal until October 26, with varying conditions depending on weather patterns such as cloud coverage.
The appearance of Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS has sparked excitement among both amateur and seasoned astronomers. Numerous residents across California, including those from Newcastle, Vacaville, and North Highlands, have successfully photographed the comet, sharing their captures with local news outlets. These images not only showcase the comet's spectacular visibility but also highlight the community's enthusiasm for such rare astronomical events.
Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS offers a fleeting glimpse into the vastness of our solar system and the dynamic nature of celestial bodies. As it continues its journey back to the outer reaches of the solar system, those lucky enough to witness this rare event carry with them the reminder of the universe's wonders and the temporal nature of such spectacular sightings.
"The comet won't be visible from Earth again for another 80,000 years. It was last likely seen from Earth at the time of the Neanderthals." - CNN report