Fans and experts are in luck. A unique astronomical event is approaching that not seen in 80,000 years, as highlighted by scientific communicator Mar Gómez. This is comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, nicknamed the comet of the century, which will offer a spectacle that only happens once in a lifetime and will be visible to the naked eye.
The countdown to this great astronomical event begins: what you should know about Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, which many call the comet of the century and which will be visible in a very short time.
This large space rock visited us about 80,000 years ago and is now back.
I’ll tell you! pic.twitter.com/1UOTogx3iF— Mar Gmez (@MarGomezH) September 22, 2024
With a nucleus between 6 and 15 kilometers in diameter, this comet will be brighter than other comets previously observed. And when placed between the Sun and the Earth during its trajectory, it could experience a forward dispersion of sunlight. Intensifying its shine even more.
Comet C/2023 A3 was discovered in January 2023 by the Tsuchinshan Observatory in China and comes from the Oort cloud. A unique comet is approaching Earth, and it is likely to be the brightest object of the 21st century, they have declared. UNAM expertsin Mexico.
Which have also explained that comets do not have their own light and what we actually see is the reflection of the Sun’s light, which depends on the elements that make it up and how close to the Sun they are.
When to be visible
Although from September 27 If possible, observe it and the ideal time of day will be during the twilight. At this point the comet will either disintegrate or survive. NASA astronomer Zdenek Sekanina published a paper suggesting that the comet may be collapsing. However, there are voices opposed to this idea.
If the comet survives, it will reach the closest point to the Sun in its orbit. 12 of October. Between those dates the comet will be visible in the night sky with small binoculars or with the naked eye. Then, as November enters, this phenomenon will gradually lose its shine.
In Spain, where will it be visible?
As long as the weather conditions are favorable, specialists have indicated a series of ideal places in Spain to observe this very particular event. But as astronomers always advise, in this case it is best to Move to remote places, with little light pollution.
-One of these points is for example Sierra Morenaa place that is the largest Starlight Reserve and Tourist Destination in the world.
-Another environment to enjoy the views is the Sierra Nevada mountain rangewhere weather forecasts guarantee a clear vision. Additionally, at this point is the Astronomical Observatory.
-We all know the benefits of Teide National Park with its clear skies that make it one of the most outstanding places in the world for astronomical observation.
–Ager, in Lleidain the surroundings of Montsec, a unique mountain range for night observation.
-The region of Pine forests, in Soriawhere the natural viewpoints are located such as the Mirador de la Galiana and the Can del Río Lobos.
– He Gredos Regional Parkits glacial cirque allows you to enjoy the starry sky in a protected environment.
–The Monfrage National Park, in Extremadura. A protected space and an excellent option for fans.
– In Menorca there are places like Punta Nati or Cavalleria or el Monte Torowhich is the highest point on the island, with an ideal setting.
– The famous observatory in Roque de los Muchachos, in La Palma.
-In Gdar Javalambrein Teruel. And towns, such as Mora de Rubielos, offer an unparalleled environment for these comet nights.
–Corralejo, inFuerteventura, in the north of the island you can enjoy the clear sky.
-Los Huesca Pyreneesfrom the Ordesa National Park to Monte Perdido.
-The Palentina Mountain, in Castilla y León It is a perfect point due to its remote position.
The comet can be seen all over the world, so other places outside of Spain that will enjoy great visibility are especially countries like Argentina, Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Indonesia, Bolivia or Chile.
