“Most Anticipated” Comet of 2024 Makes Its Return This Weekend After 80,000 Years

The much-anticipated comet C/2023 A3, also known as Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, is making its first appearance in 80,000 years, visible from Earth starting this weekend, Earth.com revealed yesterday.

Discovered last year, the comet will be observable just before dawn from September 27 to October 4, appearing as a faint, star-like object with a tail.

NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick highlighted the comet’s bending tail, caused by atmospheric density changes. The comet is expected to reach its closest approach to the sun on September 27, potentially becoming one of the best comets in years if it survives the encounter.

Following its solar pass, C/2023 A3 will reappear in the evening sky around October 12. Stargazers can look for it near the waning crescent moon. With a diameter of 25 miles, this long-period comet offers a spectacular sight, promising an enchanting celestial display for both scientists and enthusiasts alike.