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A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME astronomical event is unfolding as Comet C/2024 G3 (Atlas) is expected to be visible in skies across the globe over the coming days.

For the first time in 160,000 years, the comet could shine bright enough to be seen with the naked eye.

The comet, which was discovered last year by NASA’s Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS), reached perihelion on Monday, the point in its orbit where it is closest to the Sun.

This proximity will significantly influence its brightness, and experts predict it could be visible as early as Monday night.

However, the exact visibility depends on local conditions and the comet's behavior, as its brightness can fluctuate unpredictably.

In a report by BBC, Dr. Shyam Balaji, a researcher in astroparticle physics at King’s College London, explained that orbital calculations suggest the comet will pass about 8.3 million miles from the Sun, classifying it as a "sun-skirting" comet.

He noted that such comets are notoriously hard to predict in terms of visibility, and the chances of seeing Atlas will vary by location.

The southern hemisphere is expected to offer the best viewing conditions.

Observers are advised to look toward the eastern horizon before sunrise and the western horizon after sunset.

In contrast, visibility in the northern hemisphere, including

the UK, may be more challenging due to the comet’s position relative to the Sun.

While Atlas is predicted to shine as brightly as Venus, its brightness remains uncertain, and many comets end up being fainter than initially anticipated.

To improve chances of spotting the comet, astronomers recommend finding a dark location away from light pollution and using binoculars or a small telescope.

NASA astronaut Don Pettit recently shared a photograph of the comet taken from the International Space Station, calling the sight “totally amazing.”

For those hoping to catch a glimpse of this rare celestial visitor, clear skies and careful planning will be essential.(CMM)

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