When and How to View a Rare Comet: Don't Miss Your Chance!
Skywatchers have a rare opportunity to enjoy the view of a once-in-lifetime comet later this week as it would pass by the Earth before getting lost in the vast expanse of cosmos forever.The Comet Tsuc...
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Skygazers will have a unique chance to witness a once-in-a-lifetime comet as it passes close to Earth this week before disappearing into the vast cosmos. Known as Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, this comet was first spotted almost two years ago by astronomers in China at the Tsuchinshan Observatory, also known as the Purple Mountain Observatory, on January 9, 2023. Subsequently, it was observed in South Africa by independent astronomers utilizing the Asteroid Terrestrial-Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) telescope. Comets are celestial bodies composed of dust and ice that orbit the Sun, leaving behind long, trailing tails. They are remnants from the early formation of the solar system approximately 4.6 billion years ago. Most comets are too dim to be seen without a telescope, but a select few are bright enough to be visible to the naked eye. Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS originates from the Oort Cloud, a region filled with frozen debris at the outermost reaches of our solar system. It is possible that this comet may never return, as it could be ejected from the solar system due to gravitational influences from other celestial bodies. The comet will make its closest approach to Earth on October 12, coming within 44 million miles. On October 9, it is expected to shine brightest due to its position in relation to the Earth, allowing sunlight to reflect off its dusty debris, a phenomenon known as forward scattering. This brightness may even make the comet visible during daylight hours."Nichols described the comet as a rare sight to behold, worth venturing out to see. Visible to the naked eye from October 9 until the end of the month, experts recommend finding a dark location for the best view towards the western horizon. For those interested in watching the comet after sunset, it will appear low in the sky near the setting sun, and may require a telescope or binoculars for a clearer view due to its faintness. Although the comet may diminish in brightness after October 9, it will still be observable. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the comet's beauty, as it may not be visible again in your lifetime. Stay tuned for the Veer and Bulbul reunion in the latest episode of 'Mera Balam Thanedaar' – a must-watch update."