**Experts predict visibility across the globe, especially for southern hemisphere observers, as the comet approaches its perihelion.**
**Ancient Comet Returns: A Celestial Spectacle Unfolds**
**Ancient Comet Returns: A Celestial Spectacle Unfolds**
**A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness Comet C/2024 G3 (Atlas) after 160,000 years arrives this week.**
The cosmos is preparing for an extraordinary event as Comet C/2024 G3 (Atlas) graces the night sky for the first time in 160,000 years. NASA has announced that this illustrious celestial visitor is expected to shine bright in the coming days, offering a rare chance for skywatchers worldwide to observe its brilliance.
On Monday, the comet reached perihelion, the critical point of closest approach to the Sun, a factor that greatly impacts its illumination. While predicting the future brightness of comets can be challenging, this particular comet is anticipated to be visible to the naked eye. It was discovered by NASA's Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System last year and has since been the focus of considerable attention.
According to Dr. Shyam Balaji, an expert in astroparticle physics and cosmology at King’s College London, C/2024 G3 is classified as a "sun-skirting" comet, making its closest pass approximately 8.3 million miles from the Sun. This rare opportunity is dubbed a once-in-160,000-year occurrence. Dr. Balaji indicated that the best viewing chances will likely arise around the time of perihelion, contingent on local atmospheric conditions and the comet’s brightness.
Observers in the southern hemisphere are likely to have the best vantage points. Balaji suggests looking toward the eastern horizon in the pre-dawn hours and the western horizon post-sunset for an optimal experience. He cautions, however, that the brightness predictions of comets can be highly uncertain, with many failing to meet initial brightness forecasts.
For northern hemisphere residents, including those in the UK, catching a glimpse of the comet may prove difficult due to its position relative to the Sun. Checking local weather conditions on platforms like BBC Weather could enhance chances for spotting this extraordinary sight.
Astronomy enthusiasts hoping to see Comet C/2024 G3 should find dark locations away from city lights and consider using binoculars or a small telescope for better visibility. Additionally, awareness of sunrise and sunset times is essential for navigating the best moments to glimpse this rare celestial event.
In a remarkable demonstration of the comet's allure, astronaut Don Pettit shared stunning photographs of the comet from the International Space Station, expressing excitement about witnessing this celestial visitor.
As Comet C/2024 G3 (Atlas) lights up the sky, enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike prepare for this spectacular cosmic encounter.
On Monday, the comet reached perihelion, the critical point of closest approach to the Sun, a factor that greatly impacts its illumination. While predicting the future brightness of comets can be challenging, this particular comet is anticipated to be visible to the naked eye. It was discovered by NASA's Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System last year and has since been the focus of considerable attention.
According to Dr. Shyam Balaji, an expert in astroparticle physics and cosmology at King’s College London, C/2024 G3 is classified as a "sun-skirting" comet, making its closest pass approximately 8.3 million miles from the Sun. This rare opportunity is dubbed a once-in-160,000-year occurrence. Dr. Balaji indicated that the best viewing chances will likely arise around the time of perihelion, contingent on local atmospheric conditions and the comet’s brightness.
Observers in the southern hemisphere are likely to have the best vantage points. Balaji suggests looking toward the eastern horizon in the pre-dawn hours and the western horizon post-sunset for an optimal experience. He cautions, however, that the brightness predictions of comets can be highly uncertain, with many failing to meet initial brightness forecasts.
For northern hemisphere residents, including those in the UK, catching a glimpse of the comet may prove difficult due to its position relative to the Sun. Checking local weather conditions on platforms like BBC Weather could enhance chances for spotting this extraordinary sight.
Astronomy enthusiasts hoping to see Comet C/2024 G3 should find dark locations away from city lights and consider using binoculars or a small telescope for better visibility. Additionally, awareness of sunrise and sunset times is essential for navigating the best moments to glimpse this rare celestial event.
In a remarkable demonstration of the comet's allure, astronaut Don Pettit shared stunning photographs of the comet from the International Space Station, expressing excitement about witnessing this celestial visitor.
As Comet C/2024 G3 (Atlas) lights up the sky, enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike prepare for this spectacular cosmic encounter.
