Comet drive-by
Something last visible to the Neanderthals will be visible in the night skies over the U.S. this week. No, we’re not talking woolly mammoths – but almost as good.
Last visible to earthlings 80,000 years ago, Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, aka C/2023 A3 will once again come in for an extremely rare up-close, naked eye viewing. Although visible most of the month, it will be brightest this Sat., Oct. 12, shortly after sundown. Cometgazers are advised to keep their eyes peeled toward the western horizon. But don’t dilly-dally: the “cosmic snowball” will fade off into the cosmos in about 30 minutes.
And if you happen to miss it – A3 is expected to be visible thru Oct. 19, clear skies willing. However, binoculars, a telescope or some really sharp eyes will be necessary.
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