Skywatchers worldwide can witness Comet G3 ATLAS (C/2024) at its peak brightness tonight, January 13, 2025. This rare event occurs once every 160,000 years, with the comet approaching within 8.7 million miles of the Sun at perihelion.
Discovered on April 5, 2024, by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) in Chile, G3 ATLAS initially shone at a magnitude of +19. Recent observations indicate a significant brightness increase, especially after a dramatic outburst on January 2, 2025. Predictions suggest the comet may outshine planets like Venus and Jupiter, potentially becoming the brightest comet in nearly two decades.
Astronaut Don Pettit captured stunning images of G3 ATLAS from the International Space Station as it journeys through space. Tonight, the comet is expected to shine at around -3.2 magnitude, making it visible to the naked eye under favorable conditions, particularly in the Southern Hemisphere shortly after sunset.
Observers in the Northern Hemisphere may face challenges due to the comet's low position on the horizon and bright twilight. Astronomers are monitoring G3 ATLAS closely, as its proximity to the Sun raises concerns about the comet's stability, with large comets often fragmenting during such encounters.
Despite uncertainties, excitement is high among stargazers and scientists as they prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime spectacle. Binoculars are recommended to enhance visibility for those eager to catch a glimpse of this extraordinary visitor from the outer solar system.
As G3 ATLAS passes through our skies, it promises to leave a lasting impression on the astronomical calendar.