This October, the skies above Leeds will be graced by Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), a rare celestial spectacle also called the “comet of the century.” Having last passed Earth around 80,000 years ago during the era of the Neanderthals, this comet is now visible again, offering skywatchers in Leeds a unique chance to witness a piece of astronomical history.
Comet A3 was discovered in 2023 by the Tsuchinshan Observatory in China and the ATLAS programme in South Africa. This extraordinary comet comes from the Oort Cloud, a distant region of icy bodies at the edge of our solar system. It is expected to glow with a bright green hue due to the presence of diatomic carbon (C2), and its tail could grow up to 40 times the size of the full Moon.
Best Time and Place to See Comet A3 in Leeds
For those hoping to spot the Leeds comet visible, the best time to look is just after sunset from 15–31 October, when Comet A3 will be passing through the constellations Serpens Caput and Ophiuchus. The comet will be visible in the western sky, so plan to find a spot with an open view of the horizon.
Great local spots to observe the Leeds comet visible include Otley Chevin Forest Park and Ilkley Moor, where you can avoid city light pollution and enjoy a clear view of the night sky. Don’t forget to bring binoculars or a telescope to enhance your view of this extraordinary cosmic visitor.
Comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas seen over Mt. Adams a few hours ago! 🤯☄️ pic.twitter.com/rEWua6NKa9
— KRL (@KennethLerose) October 14, 2024
The Science Behind Comet A3
Comet A3’s journey from the Oort Cloud takes it through the inner solar system, now about 44 million miles from Earth. The Oort Cloud is a distant, icy region surrounding our solar system that produces comets like A3. As the comet gets closer to the Sun, the heat causes gases and dust to vaporise from its surface, creating its signature long tail.
The green glow of Comet A3 comes from its chemical composition. Diatomic carbon, when exposed to sunlight, emits a bright green light, giving the comet its striking colour. Its tail, a dazzling display of evaporating gases and dust, is expected to grow in size and brightness throughout the month.
How to Photograph the Leeds Comet Visible
Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur stargazer, there’s a chance to capture this rare event. Dr. Robert Massey of the Royal Astronomical Society recommends using a DSLR camera for the best results, but even a smartphone camera can work when paired with a small telescope. Steady your camera on a tripod or solid surface and point it towards the western sky after sunset to capture the Leeds comet visible with its glowing tail.
Don’t Miss Out!
With its 80,000-year orbit, Comet A3 won’t be visible again for thousands of years, so this is a once-in-a-lifetime event for Leeds residents. Be sure to head to locations like Otley Chevin or Ilkley Moor over the next two weeks to experience this incredible sight before it disappears from view. Whether you’re out for a peaceful night under the stars or hoping to photograph this cosmic wonder, don’t miss the chance to witness Comet A3.
Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) above the troposphere, half an hour time-lapse.
— Mickey (@mickeywzx) October 13, 2024
Beside the magnificent dust tail, ‘Anti-tail’ is also clearly perceived even by naked eye.
Welcome to the October comet season! pic.twitter.com/TNN10cCCEH
