Comet returns after 80,000 years to light up the night sky in Ontario

A comet returning after thousands of years will light up the night sky in Ontario next month.

Comet C/2023 A3, also known as Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, is set to make its highly anticipated return to Earth’s skies for the first time in 80,000 years.

According to Space.com, the comet reached its closest point to the sun (perihelion) on Sept. 27, coming within 36.4 million miles (58.6 million kilometres) of the sun— roughly the same distance as Mercury.

Experts say the comet’s long tail, composed of gas and dust, has grown more prominent as it nears the sun. This close encounter with the sun could also generate extreme temperatures as high as 800 F (430 C).

If the comet survives its solar passage, it is expected to reach peak brightness on Oct. 9. There is even a possibility that it could shine as brightly as Jupiter or Venus due to dust particles scattering sunlight, Space.com notes on its website.

Skywatchers should mark their calendars for the comet’s best display between Oct. 12 and 20, when it will be clearly visible in the evening sky.

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The comet can be observed with the naked eye, but for a more detailed view of its tail and structure, binoculars or a small telescope will enhance the experience.

According to EarthSky.org, for optimal viewing, look toward the western horizon just after sunset. The comet is anticipated to rise higher each night.

You don’t want to miss this rare opportunity to witness Comet C/2023 A3. Astronomers say that after its close approach to the sun in September and its pass by Earth in mid-October, the comet will either head back toward the Oort Cloud (a distant region of icy objects surrounding the solar system) or possibly exit the solar system entirely.