A newly discovered comet, C/2024 G3 ATLAS, is making a rare appearance in Earth’s nighttime skies this month. The comet, which takes about 160,000 years to complete an orbit of the Sun, was discovered in April using the Asteroid Terrestrial-Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS).
Astronomers estimate that Comet ATLAS will be visible for a short period, with the best view expected in the Southern Hemisphere after sunset earlier this month. However, the Northern Hemisphere may also get its chance soon.
NASA astronaut Don Petit captured an image of the comet from his vantage point 200 miles above Earth on the International Space Station, describing it as “totally amazing to see a comet from orbit.”
Unfortunately, not everyone will be able to see Comet ATLAS due to weather conditions. The ongoing California wildfire smoke could obscure the view for many, but experts suggest using binoculars or a telescope at mid-northern latitudes might provide the best chance of spotting the comet, given an unobstructed view of the southwestern sky.
Source: https://www.foxweather.com/earth-space/comet-c-2024-atlas-pays-earth-once-in-160000-year-visit