Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — A rare celestial event is set to captivate skywatchers around the world this late September as Comet C/2023 A3, Tsuchinsan-ATLAS, makes its grand return to Earth’s skies for the first time in 80.000 years. This long-period comet will be visible for four consecutive days just before sunrise, offering a unique opportunity for observers around the world to catch a glimpse of this astronomical marvel.
Astronomers believe that Comet C/2023 A3 will be at its brightest on Friday, September 27, when it reaches its perihelion or the closest point to the Sun in its orbit.
The comet is expected to be visible to the naked eye, particularly for those in the Northern Hemisphere, as it rises a few degrees above the east-southeast horizon approximately 30 minutes before dawn from September 27 through October 2.
According to Live Science, the best viewing conditions are anticipated on September 29 and 30, when the comet will appear alongside a waning crescent Moon, the final phase of the lunar cycle, offering a faint but beautiful backdrop for the comet’s display.
Although it may be visible without the aid of telescopes, comets are notoriously unpredictable. Experts recommend using a small telescope or binoculars for a clearer view of C/2023 A3, especially for those eager to see its potentially large, luminous tail. However, just how bright the comet will appear remains uncertain, with some astronomers speculating that it could shine as brightly as the top 20 stars in the night sky.
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For those in equatorial regions, the comet will remain visible until October 2. After that, it will disappear into the Sun’s glare, only to reemerge around October 12 when it reaches its closest approach to Earth. By that time, the comet should be visible again in the Northern Hemisphere’s night sky, marking the final opportunity for stargazers to witness this once-in-a-lifetime event.
As Comet C/2023 A3 makes its 80.000 years return, astronomers and enthusiasts alike are preparing for an unforgettable sight, a reminder of the wonders of the cosmos and the rare phenomena that connect us to the ancient skies.
(Raidi/Agung)
