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The Royal Astronomical Society has stated that a comet last seen from Earth 80,000 years ago could be visible with the naked eye in the UK on the evening of Saturday, 10 October. Comet A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), known as the “comet of the century”, has the potential to be both bright and highly visible. The comet is set to be at a distance of about 70 million km (44 million miles) away from Earth on Saturday. Observers have been advised by Dr Robert Massey from the RAS to bring a pair of binoculars, to head for higher ground, and to seek a view towards the horizon where there are no obstructions. According to Nasa Earth Observatory, the comet is visible from Saturday night until 30 October.
Sky watchers have also been warned to dress warmly and bring a hot drink with them if interested in viewing the comet. Skies will be clearer overnight on 10 October as strong winds drive clouds and showers away into the North Sea. While it is expected to be visible from the UK, it was first seen in the south hemisphere, from 27 September to 2 October. The Nasa Earth Observatory reported that the comet was likely from the outer limits of our solar system, and that it made its closest transit past the sun on 27 September. Dr. Massey has estimated that the solid core or nucleus of the comet is mountain-sized, roughly 2km (1.24 miles) long, and he has met expectations from prediction models so far.
Dr. Massey has also provided insights into how to capture the comet using a camera. Hobby astronomers are advised to use a DSLR camera, but for those keen to get a quick snap, Dr. Massey has suggested that using a small telescope and resting a phone against the eyepiece could also be helpful. This comet sighting follows the Northern Lights that were seen over the UK on Thursday, 8 October. There is no apparent correlation between the two events. The comet is expected to remain visible until 30 October.
To share their experiences and photos, viewers of the comet have been encouraged to contact the BBC. A contact number should also be included if interview with a journalist is desired. Sharing can occur on numerous media channels including email, WhatsApp, and Twitter by contacting BBC_HaveYourSay
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