It's not every day that we are visited by a comet in the night sky - and certainly not one that is considered the "comet of the century"! The Comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS is about to pay a flying visit to Mallorca. According to Salvador Sánchezthe founder of the Astronomical Observatory of Mallorca, it is between the October 11 and 15 If you're lucky, we can watch the spectacle with the naked eye. So you don't need a telescope or any knowledge of astronomy, just find the right place!
A comet with style
This young comet doesn't just pass by - no, it brings its glamorous tail with it, which will spread out in the October night sky. After a short break because it is currently passing between the Earth and the Sun, it will be visible again from the weekend. And when it appears on October 12 and 13 shines brightest, it is "only" about 70 million kilometers away from us. Well, it's almost within reach, isn't it?
Where you can see the comet - here is the map!
If you want to marvel at this celestial wonder, make yourself comfortable after sunset in a place where you won't be disturbed by street lamps or hotel lighting. Light pollution is your enemy, so it's best to find a spot in the Mallorcan countryside. Important: You need a unobstructed view to the west. No trees, no mountains in the way. The Venus could be your trusty compass - it lights up to the left of the comet's position. Then all you have to do is open your eyes and enjoy!
And this name - what does it actually mean?
"C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS" may sound complicated, but it's not that difficult. The "C" tells us that this comet is a rare guest that doesn't visit us regularly. And "Tsuchinshan-ATLAS"? These are the observatories that saw it first: A telescope in China and one in South Africa. Astronomy at its best!
Memories of Hale-Bopp
For all those who still have a little nostalgia in their luggage: The last big comet that could be observed so wonderfully with the naked eye on Mallorca was Hale-Bopp For four weeks, it orbited above us - a sight that is still vivid in many people's minds. And who knows when we'll next get another visit from one of these in the sky?
So, grab your binoculars (or just a comfy spot), and get ready for this celestial event. Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS only gives a brief performance - but one that's well worth it!
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