Rare comet visible for first time in 160,000 years
If you want to spot this incredible sight you have to be quick, and sharp eyed.
Space is a marvellous place filled with stars and celestial sights that many of us can only dream of witnessing firsthand.
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Thanks to NASA, however, we can explore the cosmos through breathtaking images captured from across the galaxy. For those not fortunate enough to become astronauts and experience the world from above or walk on the moon, these glimpses of space are nothing short of magical.
Occasionally, we earthlings are treated to extraordinary cosmic events – eclipses, meteor showers, and now, something even more rare.
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A very special sight that hasn’t graced our skies in 160,000 years is back: Comet C/2024 G3 (Atlas). This rare comet reached its perihelion – the closest point to the sun – on Monday, January 13, according to NASA and BBC News.
While its brightness in the coming days remains uncertain, the comet is expected to stay visible. Experts suggest the southern hemisphere offers the best viewing opportunities.
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Dr Shyam Balaji, a researcher in astroparticle physics and cosmology at King's College London, says that it will pass around 8,3 million miles (or 13,35 million kilometres) from the sun, classifying it as a sun-skirting comet – a once-in-a-lifetime (or more accurately, once-in-160,000-years) event.
To catch a glimpse of this incredible phenomenon, Dr Balaji advises looking toward the eastern horizon before sunrise or the western horizon after sunset. For an even better view, use binoculars or a small telescope.
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One unforgettable sighting was captured aboard the International Space Station, where NASA astronaut Don Pettit shared a stunning photo of the comet soaring through space – a moment that perfectly captures the awe of this cosmic event.
Don’t miss your chance to witness this rare and beautiful spectacle!
It is totally amazing to see a comet from orbit. Atlas C2024-G3 is paying us a visit. pic.twitter.com/6Npqa2Wksf
— Don Pettit (@astro_Pettit) January 11, 2025
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Main image courtesy of Petr Horalek/Institute of Physics in Opava