Skywatchers will have a unique opportunity to witness a once-in-a-lifetime comet passing by the Earth this week before disappearing into the vast universe forever. The Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, first spotted by astronomers in China at the Tsuchinshan Observatory on January 9, 2023, has been visible for nearly two years. In February of the same year, independent observers in South Africa detected it using the Asteroid Terrestrial-Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) telescope. Comets, composed of dust and ice, orbit the Sun, leaving behind long, streaming tails, and are remnants of the solar system's formation 4.6 billion years ago. Most comets require a telescope for observation, but a rare few, like Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, are bright enough to be seen with the naked eye. Originating from the Oort Cloud at the solar system's outer edge, the comet might complete an orbit around the Sun every 80,000 years, although it could be ejected from the solar system due to the gravitational influence of other celestial objects. Michelle Nichols, the director of public observing at the Adler Planetarium in Chicago, mentioned to the New York Times that this comet might never return. The closest approach of Tsuchinshan-ATLAS to Earth will be on October 12, at a distance of 44 million miles, with its peak brightness expected on the evening of October 9, providing a spectacular display due to forward scattering of dusty debris reflecting sunlight towards Earth. This phenomenon might make the comet visible even during daylight hours."Nichols emphasized that seeing comet ibility is a rare opportunity and is worth the effort. The comet will be visible to the naked eye from October 9 to the end of the month. To get the best view, experts recommend finding a dark location with a clear view of the western horizon. If you want to spot the comet after sunset, look towards the horizon where it has set, although it may appear faint. Consider using a telescope or binoculars for a better view. While the comet may dim after October 9, it will still be visible. Make sure not to miss this chance as such an opportunity may not arise again in your lifetime."
