Comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) is the latest celestial wonder to capture the attention of astronomers and skywatchers. This newly discovered comet has the potential to light up the night sky, making it an exciting target for both amateur and professional astronomers. In this article, we’ll explore the discovery of this comet, observations made so far, recent updates, upcoming observing opportunities, and its predicted brightness.
Discovery
Comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) was discovered in April 2024 by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS), an astronomical survey designed to detect near-Earth objects that could pose a threat to our planet. ATLAS has become known for spotting both asteroids and comets, and C/2024 G3 adds to its growing list of discoveries.
The comet’s initial detection was made when it was still a faint object in the outer reaches of the solar system, well beyond the orbit of Jupiter. Early observations suggested that it was a long-period comet, originating from the distant Oort Cloud, a vast region of icy bodies surrounding the solar system. This means that the comet has likely traveled billions of kilometers to make its current approach toward the Sun.
Observations So Far
Since its discovery, astronomers have been closely monitoring Comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) as it continues its journey toward the inner solar system. Early observations, conducted using ground-based telescopes and the assistance of space-based instruments, revealed a small but growing coma—the cloud of gas and dust that forms around the nucleus as the comet heats up.
When first detected, the comet’s brightness was measured at a visual magnitude of approximately +18, making it extremely faint and only observable with powerful telescopes. As the comet moved closer to the Sun, it began to brighten gradually. By mid-2024, the comet’s magnitude had increased to around +13, still requiring a telescope for observation, but showing promising signs of increased activity as it drew nearer.
Astronomers continued tracking the comet’s brightness as it moved inward, noting its gradual brightening as the coma expanded and its tail started to form.
Recent Observations
In recent months, Comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) has drawn closer to the Sun and become more visible to telescopes on Earth. By September 2024, the comet’s brightness had reached approximately +10 to +11, still a relatively dim object but now accessible to backyard astronomers using medium-sized telescopes. As it approaches perihelion, the comet is expected to brighten further.
Spectral analysis of the comet’s coma indicates that it is releasing gases such as water vapor, carbon dioxide, and ammonia—typical signatures of a comet. These recent observations suggest that C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) is relatively active and could become bright enough to be seen with the naked eye under ideal conditions as it continues to brighten.
Astronomers are closely watching the comet’s progress and updating brightness predictions as more data becomes available. Current estimates suggest that the comet could reach a magnitude of +5 or +6 near perihelion, depending on how it behaves as it nears the Sun.
Observing Opportunities
Comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) offers an exciting observing opportunity for skywatchers in late 2024. Its perihelion is predicted to occur on November 1, 2024, when it will be closest to the Sun, and its visibility will peak around this time. As the comet approaches perihelion, it will pass through several prominent constellations, making it easier to locate in the night sky.
Between mid-October and early November 2024, the comet will be observable as it travels through Virgo and Libra, eventually passing through Scorpius shortly after perihelion. These constellations are prominent in the southern evening sky during autumn, providing ideal viewing windows for those in the northern hemisphere.
However, several factors will affect visibility during this period:
- Moon Phase: The new moon on November 12, 2024, will create a dark sky, ideal for observing fainter objects like comets. The days leading up to and following the new moon will offer the best chances to spot C/2024 G3, as moonlight will not interfere.
- Twilight: Twilight, the period just after sunset and before sunrise, will be an important consideration for observation. In early November, the comet will be best visible in the pre-dawn sky as it travels lower toward the horizon. Avoiding light pollution and observing during true night (after astronomical twilight ends) will improve the chances of spotting the comet.
For optimal viewing, plan your observation in the pre-dawn hours or shortly after dusk, when the comet will be higher in the sky, especially around its peak brightness in late October and early November. Make sure to use binoculars or a telescope, as even though the comet may brighten, it will likely still appear faint without magnification.
Predicted Brightness
The brightness of a comet is notoriously difficult to predict, as it depends on several factors, including its proximity to the Sun, the size of its nucleus, and the activity of its coma. Comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) is predicted to reach its peak brightness around January 2025, with varying estimates regarding its maximum visual magnitude. Some predictions suggest it could reach a brightness of approximately magnitude 0.6 near its perihelion, making it potentially visible to the naked eye, similar to past comets like NEOWISE
However, there are significant uncertainties about its behavior, particularly because C/2024 G3 is a “dynamically new” comet. Comets entering the inner solar system for the first time, like this one, are at a higher risk of disintegration before reaching perihelion. Some astronomers believe it may not survive its close approach to the Sun due to its relatively faint absolute magnitude of around +9.0
Ultimately, while there’s hope that C/2024 G3 could put on a brilliant show, there’s also a possibility that it may fragment or fade before becoming easily visible. Observers will need to keep a close eye on its progress as it nears the Sun in early 2025.
As with most comets, its brightness could fluctuate, and there is always a possibility of an outburst that could cause it to become brighter than expected. Conversely, the comet could also fade if its nucleus begins to break apart or if its activity diminishes as it nears the Sun.
In summary, Comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) presents an intriguing opportunity for skywatchers to witness a cometary visitor from the far reaches of the solar system. Keep your eyes on the night sky in the weeks leading up to perihelion, and with a bit of luck, you might catch a glimpse of this icy traveler as it passes by.
Whether you’re an experienced astronomer or just a curious observer, C/2024 G3 promises to be one of the most interesting celestial events moving in to 2025 so mark your calendar and prepare your telescope for a closer look!