Edinburgh’s skies are about to light up with the spectacular sight of Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), also known as the “comet of the century.” Visible throughout October, this rare celestial visitor is making a once-in-a-lifetime pass through our solar system, last seen by the Neanderthals around 80,000 years ago. Now, residents of Edinburgh have the chance to witness this breathtaking event.
Discovered in early 2023 by the Tsuchinshan Observatory in China and the ATLAS programme in South Africa, Comet A3 comes from the Oort Cloud, a distant region of icy objects that orbits the Sun. The comet’s glowing green colour is caused by diatomic carbon reacting to sunlight, and its tail is expected to grow up to 40 times the size of the full Moon.
Comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas seen over Mt. Adams a few hours ago! 🤯☄️ pic.twitter.com/rEWua6NKa9
— KRL (@KennethLerose) October 14, 2024
Where and When to Spot Comet A3 in Edinburgh
For those looking to catch a glimpse of the Edinburgh comet visible in the sky, the best time is just after sunset, from 15–31 October. The comet will appear low in the western sky, passing through the constellations Serpens Caput and Ophiuchus.
To get the best view of the Edinburgh comet visible, head to popular high points like Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill, where you can escape city lights and enjoy a clear horizon. These spots offer excellent opportunities to observe the comet as it travels across the sky.
The Science Behind Comet A3
Comet A3’s journey from the Oort Cloud brings it to about 44 million miles from Earth, making it one of the most significant comets visible in years. The Oort Cloud, a massive region surrounding the solar system, is where icy bodies like comets form. These comets occasionally venture into the inner solar system, giving us rare glimpses of these ancient objects.
The comet’s distinctive green glow comes from its chemical makeup, specifically the presence of diatomic carbon (C2). As the comet approaches the Sun, the heat causes gases and dust to evaporate, creating its long, glowing tail.
Capturing the Edinburgh Comet Visible on Camera
Edinburgh photographers and stargazers have a unique chance to capture this cosmic event. Dr. Robert Massey, deputy director of the Royal Astronomical Society, suggests using a DSLR camera for the best results. For those without professional equipment, a mobile phone camera paired with a small telescope can still produce impressive images. Steady your camera on a surface or against a telescope eyepiece to capture the vibrant tail of Comet A3.
Don’t Miss This Event!
With an orbital period of 80,000 years, Comet A3 won’t be back again anytime soon. This is a rare chance for Edinburgh residents to witness a piece of astronomical history. Make sure to plan your viewing before the comet disappears from our skies on 30 October. So, grab your binoculars or camera, head to Arthur’s Seat, and marvel at the beauty of this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) time lapse from 1847–1937 MST 13 October 2024. Was able to capture the anti tail (and too many headlights). 85mm lens cropped to 16:9 aspect ratio.
— David Blanchard (@dblanchard_AZ) October 14, 2024
Ashurst Lake, Coconino National Forest, Arizona.#comet #astrophotography pic.twitter.com/ubUAkgGjCH
