Catch a Glimpse of a Rare Comet This Week!

Astronomers have spotted a comet that’s getting really close to Earth. It’s been a while since this comet visited – around 80,000 years! The best time to see it is just after sunset, looking west. You might not need binoculars or a telescope; your naked eye should do the trick. If you miss it this time, don’t worry too much, you’ll have another chance in 80,000 years.

This comet, named C/2023 A3, is making its closest pass by Earth. People in the Southern Hemisphere already enjoyed the view, and now it’s the Northern Hemisphere’s turn. It’s been getting brighter and will be at its brightest on October 19. To spot it, find an open space with fewer trees and buildings. Look towards the western sky, near Venus and the star Arcturus. If you can’t see it, try using your phone’s camera or a night sky app. If you’re not lucky enough to see it directly, there’s a live feed from the Virtual Telescope Project in Italy. They’ll be showing the comet live.

Actions