A rare comet brightens the night skies in October

A rare bright comet, Tsuchinshan-Atlas, is approaching Earth and will make its closest pass on Saturday. It is expected to be visible with the naked eye through the end of October, though binoculars or telescopes will enhance the view.

Comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas, also designated C/2023 A3, was discovered last year and originated from the Oort Cloud, beyond Pluto.

After passing within 44 million miles (71 million kilometers) of Earth, it won’t return for another 80,000 years, ABC News has reported.

To spot the comet, viewers should look to the west about an hour after sunset on clear nights, as it will be visible from both hemispheres.

Written by B.C. Begley