Skywatchers around the world are in for a spectacular treat tonight as Comet G3 ATLAS (C/2024) reaches its peak brightness.
This rare celestial event, occurring just once every 160,000 years, will see the comet come within 8.7 million miles of the Sun at its perihelion, offering a fleeting opportunity for observers to witness its brilliance.
Discovered on April 5, 2024, by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) in Chile, G3 ATLAS was initially faint, shining at a magnitude of +19.
However, recent observations indicate a significant increase in brightness, particularly following a dramatic outburst on January 2, 2025. This surge has led to predictions that the comet could outshine prominent planets like Venus and Jupiter, potentially becoming the brightest comet seen in nearly two decades.
Astronaut Don Pettit captured this once-in-a-lifetime comet from the International Space Station as it flies above the planet on its cosmic journey.
Tonight, January 13, 2025, marks the moment when G3 ATLAS will be at its closest approach to the Sun.
The comet is expected to shine brightly at around -3.2 magnitude, making it visible to the naked eye under favorable conditions. The best viewing opportunities will be in the Southern Hemisphere, where observers can look for it shortly after sunset.
In contrast, those in the Northern Hemisphere may find it more challenging due to its low position on the horizon and bright twilight.
Astronomers are closely monitoring G3 ATLAS as it approaches perihelion. The close proximity to the Sun raises questions about the comet's stability; large comets often experience fragmentation during such encounters.
Despite these uncertainties, excitement is palpable among stargazers and scientists alike as they prepare for what could be a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.
For those eager to catch a glimpse of this extraordinary visitor from the outer solar system, binoculars are recommended to enhance visibility.
As G3 ATLAS makes its historic pass through our skies, it promises to leave an indelible mark on the astronomical calendar.