Published October 10, 2024 at 7:58 pm /©Canva montage
It is possible that comet “Atlas Zouchenshan” will reach its closest point to Earth on October 12, and will be visible in the western evening sky shortly after sunset for a few days.
It is possible that comet “Atlas Zouchenshan” will reach its closest point to Earth on October 12, and will be visible in the western evening sky shortly after sunset for a few days.
Comet Atlas Tsuchenshan will be visible in the evening sky this weekend. Find out when and where you can best observe the supercomet.
from Nadia Alina Gressel
2 minutes reading time(281 words)
This weekend could be particularly exciting for star enthusiasts and sky watchers: Comet Tsochenchan Atlas, one of the brightest comets of the last few decades, is also expected to be visible in the evening sky in Austria. Having already caused a stir in the Southern Hemisphere, observers in the Northern Hemisphere now have the best chances of seeing the comet – perhaps as early as Friday – but more likely on Saturday and Sunday.
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When and where can comet “Atlas Zouchenshan” be seen?
Shortly after sunset, the comet should appear at twilight in the west, just where the sun is setting. The best time to view the “Zouchenshan Atlas” is the first hour after sunset. The comet is approaching Earth and will reach its closest point on Sunday, October 12, at a distance of about 70 million kilometers. It could become visible as early as Friday, October 10, and will be higher in the sky each day, but will quickly fade away as it moves away from Earth. Whether the comet will be a stunning phenomenon depends on its brightness and evolution near the Sun. More here: Celestial spectacle: Could a bright comet be seen over Austria too?
Comet: This is how you can find the best place to observe
For a successful comet viewing, experts from the Salzkammergut Astronomical Working Group recommend an observation location with a clear view of the western horizon. Ideally, the sky should be clear because clouds or light pollution can obscure the view. Observing the comet is likely to be more successful, especially in rural areas of Austria, away from urban light sources.
What is a comet and why is the Tsuchenshan Atlas special?
Comets consist of a mixture of ice, dust, and rocks and come from the outer regions of the solar system. Once they get close to the sun, the ice begins to evaporate, creating a distinctive glowing tail. “Atlas Zouchenshan” was discovered in January 2023, and it could become one of the most beautiful comets in recent years if it survives its proximity to the sun. If the comet breaks apart, it may no longer be visible.
Frequently asked questions:
When is the best time to see the Zouchenshan Atlas?
The comet is expected to be visible starting October 11, immediately after sunset.
When will the comet be closest to Earth?
The comet will reach its closest point to Earth on October 12, 2024, at a distance of about 70 million kilometers.
When can comet “Atlas Zouchenschan” be seen in Austria?
The comet is expected to reach its best view around October 12, when it approaches Earth – assuming it survives its proximity to the Sun unscathed. In the following days it will be visible for a longer period of time, but at the same time it will quickly move away from Earth again.
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