A comet is due to pass Earth today, and considering it only happens once every 160,000 years, you might want to keep an eye out!
Comet Atlas C/2024 G3 is currently making its journey toward the sun, which is great news for us!
The comet, which was discovered by the Atlas Survey System, is predicted to be the brightest comet of the year.
It will reach its closest approach to the sun today and may be visible to the naked eye — a rarity in a year where other comets won’t make an appearance.
Experts urge caution, however, as comet visibility can be notoriously difficult to predict.
“However, as with all comets, its visibility and brightness can be unpredictable,” explained Dr. Shyam Balaji, a researcher in astroparticle physics and cosmology at King’s College London, in comments to the Daily Mail.
“Observers may have opportunities to spot it in the days around perihelion, depending on local conditions and the comet’s behavior.”
During its closest approach to the sun, Comet Atlas will pass within 8.3 million miles — a close distance by astronomical standards, earning it the nickname “sun-skirter.”
Like all comets, it consists of frozen material that heats up and creates a glowing tail of dust and gas as it approaches the sun.
According to Space.com, there will be a narrow viewing window for observers in the Northern Hemisphere. From January 12 to January 14, the comet may be visible low on the horizon during the evening.
On January 14, viewers can look to the west-southwest about 10 minutes after sunset. At that time, the comet will appear roughly 7 degrees above the sun — a position best located with binoculars.
However, if you are viewing the comet during the day then please exercise caution.
“Viewing the comet itself poses no harm, but staring at the sun — even briefly — can cause severe retinal damage without any pain. This damage can lead to permanent blindness,” Space.com warned.
“And with the comet passing so close to the sun, do not try for a daytime sighting by scanning for it with binoculars!”
Early risers in the Northern Hemisphere have reported sightings of Comet Atlas low on the eastern horizon just before dawn.
As perihelion approaches, the best chances to view the comet will shift to the western horizon after sunset. Clear skies and an unobstructed view of the horizon are crucial for spotting the celestial event.
Interactive star maps can provide detailed guidance on where to look, tailored to specific locations.
If Comet Atlas survives the intense heat of its close encounter with the sun, it will transition to the Southern Hemisphere’s skies, becoming visible after sunset in the coming weeks.
