Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) is gracing the Australian skies. Where to find the best view!
Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) peering above the summit of Mauna Kea on September 27. Source: Suburu Telescope (Subaru Telescope), Mauna Kea, Hawaii. Courtesy of National Astronomical Observatory of Japan.
Discovered in January 2023, Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) has entered the inner solar system and is clearly visible for observers in the southern hemisphere. The comet is presently in the east, rising above the horizon after 4:00 to 4:30am (Australian Eastern Standard Time) and remaining visible prior to sunrise.
The comet recently passed perihelion (the point in its orbit when it gets closest to the Sun) yesterday, September 27th , and will now commence its return journey to the outer solar system, rising above the eastern horizon a few minutes later each morning. However, between October 3rd and October 12th, the comet will transit between Earth and the Sun and become mostly obscured by daylight.
Position of Comet C/2023 A3 on September 28 2024 in relation to the sun and earth Source: ESO/S. Brunier
Position of Comet C/2023 A3 on October 13 2024 in relation to the sun and earth Source: ESO/S. Brunier
Having attained maximum velocity at perihelion, C/2023 A3 will continue towards the outer Solar System, slowly dimming over successive nights to return again in another 26,000 years.
For the best viewing, a cloud-free sky and dark location is recommended.
The following are cloud forecasts at 4am AEST for the Australian region from Sunday 29th September to Thursday 3rd October.
Image: 4am Sunday 29 September
Image: 4am Monday 30 September
Image: 4am Tuesday 1 October
Image: 4am Wednesday 2 October
Image: 4am Thursday 3 October
As one of this year's astronomical wonders, there is a short window of opportunity to gaze skyward and marvel at this rare event. If cloud conditions are unfavourable this week, look forward to a second chance mid-October.