Rare comet graces Indian skies for first time in 80,000 years – Times of India
A rare celestial event, not seen for 80,000 years, is currently captivating stargazers and astronomers across India.
Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), first discovered in January 2023, is making its debut in millennia, offering a once-in-a-lifetime viewing opportunity.
After reaching its closest point to the Sun on September 28, 2024, the comet is now moving away and becoming increasingly visible to observers on Earth.A stunning photograph of the comet was recently captured from Ladakh.
Astrophotographers and amateur astronomers from regions like Nainital, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Telangana have been snapping breathtaking images of the comet, which is noted for being one of the brightest observed in the last decade.
To the naked eye, Comet C/2023 A3 appears as a glowing, fuzzy ball, but through binoculars or telescopes, viewers can marvel at its long, graceful tail.
The comet is best viewed in the early morning hours, just before sunrise, when it appears low on the eastern horizon. However, starting from October 12, it will be visible in the western sky after sunset, providing more convenient viewing times for many.
Astronomers recommend watching between October 14 and 24, as this window offers the best chance to witness this rare spectacle before it embarks on its 80,000-year journey through the solar system, not to return in our lifetime.
