A remarkable comet, C/2024 G3 (ATLAS), is set to illuminate the night sky, potentially shining as brightly as Venus, as it approaches Earth in the coming days.
Initially observed in April 2024 by NASA’s monitoring system while it was over 600 million kilometers away, astronomers were skeptical about the comet’s survival during its close approach to the sun. However, recent analysis indicates a new trajectory that could allow this comet to endure its solar journey and remain intact for its Earth flyby.
This comet, which completes a round trip through the solar system every 160,000 years, lends itself to visibility, particularly for stargazers in the southern hemisphere. Northern hemisphere observers may also catch a glimpse with binoculars during the latter part of the comet’s voyage around the sun.
Recent observations reveal that C/2024 G3 is shining brighter than previously anticipated, sparking speculation about its structural integrity as it nears the sun. While early assumptions pointed to a potential breakup, ongoing brightness levels suggest the comet is not disintegrating.
If it continues to thrive, C/2024 G3 could offer a stunning display in the night sky, with some experts forecasting its brightness to rival that of Venus, making it one of the most dazzling comets in years.
Despite the excitement, the comet’s true brightness remains uncertain; it may either reflect sunlight effectively enough to be visible or be overshadowed by the sun’s glare.
Astronomers have also considered the possibility of forward scattering, a phenomenon where comet dust enhances its brightness. However, the likelihood of this occurring is deemed low by experts.
The comet is expected to reach its peak brightness around its closest approach to the sun, anticipated on January 13 at 10:17 AM GMT, with its closest approach to Earth occurring shortly thereafter. This presents a viewing opportunity from January 12 to January 14 for northern hemisphere observers. Ideal viewing times will be approximately half an hour before sunrise on January 12, when the comet should be visible about 5 degrees above the horizon, and again around half an hour after sunset on January 14.
