One-in-80,000-years chance to see comet

Active astronomer Ash Pennell (left) and Otago Astronomical Society president Warren Hurley at the Beverly-Begg Observatory where they will view a comet later this week. PHOTO: GERARD O’BRIEN

Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan–Atlas) was discovered by astronomers early last year and Dunedin astronomy enthusiasts are looking forward to its debut above the city.

Otago Astronomical Society president Warren Hurley said the comet, which orbited the sun once about every 80,000 years, was expected to be visible on Saturday just after sunset.

"You should see it with the naked eye, but it’ll be better with binoculars."

People keen to view it should watch where the sun set on Friday.

"Make a note of that on the horizon and then after that as twilight hits, look just to the right.

"If [you] see it on one night, look further to the right the next night and so on."

A view shows Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), known as the comet of the century, photographed before dawn from Temisas, on the island of Gran Canaria, Spain, on September 28. PHOTO: REUTERS / BORJA SUAREZ

"Our solar system is a dynamic place and it can still surprise us.

"From our perspective in Dunedin, [the comet] is moving rapidly."

Astronomical Society life member Ash Pennell said the view would be more favourable for those up north but the comet would still be visible here.

The last time a comet was visible to the naked eye in Dunedin was in 2007, he said.

"It was wonderful.

"This one is potentially brighter."