Comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas: A celestial spectacle over Austria

Comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas: A celestial spectacle over Austria

A special sight awaits star lovers in Austria in the coming days: the comet “C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-Atlas” will be visible at twilight. This comet has already appeared in the Southern Hemisphere, where it shone brightly and presented an impressive appearance that captivated photographers and astronomers alike.

The comet is clearly visible at magnitude one, meaning it rivals the brightest stars in the sky. Michael Jäger, a comet expert from the Martinsberg Astronomical Center, notes that the comet has a remarkably long tail, measuring more than 20 degrees in the sky. For comparison: the diameter of the full moon is only about half a degree.

When and where to see

Starting Saturday evening, “Tsuchinshan Atlas” is expected to appear just above the western horizon. Astronomer Alexander Pikhard from the Vienna Working Group for Astronomy assumes that the comet will be visible to the naked eye at dusk. This visibility should last for a good week before he becomes too weak to be seen without aids. Binoculars can help find the comet, especially in the early days of its visibility.

There is great anticipation for this heavenly sight, especially since, according to Jäger, the comet is expected to have an even longer tail than in Namibia. This is intended to provide a spectacular show in the sky when conditions are right and encourage the public to take part in collective observations.

Weather conditions and observations

However, weather conditions could play a crucial role. Forecasts show that a front will move from the west into Austria on Saturday, which could affect the view of the comet. However, southern and eastern Austria could offer even better opportunities to take a look at the impressive appearance. According to Pikhard, anyone who waits until Monday will have a better chance, as the weather could then be more stable.

The comet was discovered in early 2023 and comes from the Oort Cloud, a collection of icy objects in the outer solar system. After reaching its closest point to the Sun on September 27th, it was initially not visible in Central Europe.

Together with the astronomical community in Martinsberg and the WAA, those interested in weather conditions can look out for the comet together. Events are planned to observe the spotted comet, an opportunity that will not be repeated any time soon.

For more information about the event and the observation program, those interested can here read up.