The Rare Comet ATLAS Will Be Visible to the Naked Eye on January 13

Its brightness will reach the level of Venus.

The newly discovered comet C|2024 G3 ATLAS will fly close to the Sun on Monday, January 13. If it survives this close approach, its bright glow will be visible even from Earth.

It is expected to pass just 13.5 million kilometers from the star. In comparison, Mercury orbits at a distance of up to 47 million kilometers. At this moment, G3 will also be closest to Earth.

Astronomers believe that the comet may reach the brightness of Venus, making it visible to the naked eye. For observations, it should be sought in the constellation Sagittarius. The best conditions for viewing will be for residents of the Southern Hemisphere, although under favorable circumstances, it can also be seen in the Northern Hemisphere.

Experts warn that the comet's proximity to the Sun makes observations potentially dangerous, so it is recommended to engage in this only if experienced. Additionally, visibility may be affected by the bright light of the Moon.