2024-07-13 15:33:10
For astronomy fans this is one of the most anticipated phenomena of the year. This is the passage of Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) near the Earth and the Sun. This rocky body discovered at Tsuchinshan Observatory (China) on 9 January 2023 is also known as The comet of the century.
This celestial body is from the Oort Cloud, a cloud formed by billions of icy bodies orbiting the Sun, according to information from NASA. In addition, it has a much larger area than the planetary region of the solar system.
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According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA, Comets are remnants of the beginning of the solar system, about 4.6 billion years ago. Each comet has a small frozen part called the nucleus, which is often no more than a few kilometers across. The core contains frozen chunks of ice and gas with bits of rock and dust embedded in it.
As for the size of its core, experts believe it could be between 6 and 15 km in diameter, ie which gives hope that the heart will not weaken as it approaches the Sun.
Although other astronomical predictions show that it would be 20 and 40 km, which would show a wonderful celestial scene with a brightness never seen before.
The most important dates to observe the comet in Colombia are between September 15 and October 10, 2024.
During this period, the comet will move slowly across the sky, giving fans and spectators several opportunities to observe it.
These days, the comet will be at its closest point to Earth, a great opportunity to see it in all its splendor. In fact, it will appear so bright that it may even surpass C/2020 F3 (NEOWISE) from the summer of 2020, which increased in brightness sharply from magnitude 14 to magnitude 10.
Closest approach will occur on October 1, at which time the comet will be brightest and most visible in the night sky.
After passing the Sun at a distance similar to the orbit of Mercury, the dust and ice tail of this comet will heat up significantly. As the ice particles evaporate, they will quickly escape into space, bringing with them their a large amount of dust that will disperse in a long green and shiny tail.
It must be taken into account that, in order to observe the Comet of the Century, research must be done in advance on the exact dates of greatest visibility which will help to better plan the view. In addition, it is essential to have the right equipment such as binoculars or a small telescope.
Fortunately, Colombia offers some of the best places for astronomical observation. The newspaper The country some of the best places to look at the unusual comet.
Desert Tatacoa
- This is one of the most popular astronomical observation destinations in Colombia. The Tatacoa Desert, in the Department of Huila, offers clear skies and minimal interference from artificial lights. At night, the clarity of the sky is impressive, making this place a meeting point for amateur and professional astronomers.
La Guajira
- La Guajir peninsula is another good place to observe the night sky. Its location away from major cities and its dry climate ensure clear nights. It is recommended the beaches of Cabo de la Vela to enjoy an unobstructed view.
Chingaza National Natural Park
- This is the closest to Bogotá, but quite far from the city lights. Chingaza National Natural Park a good choice for those looking for an accessible and suitable place for astronomical observation. The high elevations and clear skies make this park a great choice for viewing the comet.
Tatama National Natural Park
- Located in the departments of Risaralda, Choco and Valle del Cauca, Tatamá National Natural Park is known for its low light pollution and clear, cloudless skies. The elevations in this park provide spectacular views of the night sky.
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