Stargazing Scots are set for a celestial delight as a “once in a lifetime” comet is due to make an appearance, potentially visible without the need for telescopes.
The comet, known as C/2023 A3 or Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, could shine as brightly as the top 20 stars that light up our night sky, according to astronomers. Live Science reports the comet’s estimated orbit around Earth to be every 80,000 years, making this a once in a lifetime opportunity.
“We may be in for a much brighter comet than predicted,” Nick James of the British Astronomical Association told the Independent.
Discovered in January 2023, this comet hails from the distant Oort Cloud, which encircles our solar system with countless comets and icy fragments. There will be two prime opportunities to catch a glimpse of this extraordinary event.
The comet is anticipated to be most luminous between Friday, September 27 and Wednesday, October 2. With its dual tails—one a pale white and the other a soft blue—C/2023 A3 might be seen by keen-eyed observers here on Earth.
However, for those at mid-northern latitudes, the comet will become obscured by the dawn’s early light on September 30. Yet, individuals near the equator can look forward to viewing the comet until October 2.
During its brightest phase, the comet will appear just above the horizon roughly an hour before the sun rises.
Another chance to see this rare cosmic occurrence will be after sunset on October 12. At that time, Comet A3 will be positioned within the constellation Ophiuchus, just over the western horizon.
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How to see comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS over Scotland
For those eager to see the comet and pinpoint Ophiuchus, downloading an astronomy app could prove helpful.
Astronomy experts recommend acquiring a good pair of binoculars designed for stargazing or a modest telescope to truly enhance the experience.
Previously, Scots enjoyed a double astronomical treat when both the northern lights and an unusual meteor shower created a stunning show in the skies.
Over 100 shooting stars from the Perseid meteor shower were seen streaking across the sky every hour. Weather experts described the spectacle as “one of the most dramatic things to see in the night sky”.
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