Thursday, December 26, 2024

Rare Comet Last Observed 80,000 Years Ago Discovered Over Norfolk

Posted in
on
The C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan–ATLAS) comet has been dazzling observers as it traverses the night sky, having recently become visible over the UK after first being spotted in the southern hemisphere. Discovered in January 2022, this comet last appeared during the time of the Neanderthals. Photographer Christopher Dean captured stunning images of the comet, including a memorable shot over the iconic Cley windmill on October 24, which he described as a poignant personal tribute on the anniversary of his father’s passing. As the comet continues its journey, astronomers predict it will soon dim and will only be observable through telescopes. Composed of dust, ice, and rocky particles, comets like this one are often referred to as “dirty snowballs.”

Read More