Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff
V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology.
Astronomers and Photographers Marvel at Rare Celestial Display
Stargazers across the UK captured breathtaking images of Comet A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), which made a rare appearance on Saturday night. This comet, last seen from Earth over 80,000 years ago during the time of the Neanderthals, has been dubbed the "comet of the century" for its extraordinary brightness and visibility.
Predicted by the Royal Astronomical Society (RAS) to be visible to the naked eye, stargazers flocked to observe the comet streaking across the sky. Many captured images showing the comet as a bright streak of light, resembling a torch on the horizon, while others captured a trail similar to that of an airplane.
The comet's impressive approach brought it within 70 million kilometers of Earth, and it was also photographed in other parts of the world, including the USA, Spain, Italy, Uruguay, and Indonesia. Dr. Robert Massey of RAS recommended viewers to look west after sunset from elevated areas, armed with binoculars or cameras, to catch a glimpse of this rare astronomical event.
As the comet continues its visibility in the northern hemisphere until the end of October, amateur astronomers are encouraged to keep an eye on the night sky for more photo-worthy moments. This celestial event comes on the heels of the UK’s recent display of the Northern Lights, adding to an exciting period for skywatchers.
