This comet will not be visible from New York for another 8,000 years

In astrological time, eight thousand years is just the blink of an eye. But we work human hours down here on planet Earth, so hearing about a comet that will be visible from New York for the last time in over eight centuries is certainly something that grabs our attention.

C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, as the comet is called, was first discovered in 2023 as it approached the inner solar system. Although scientists assumed the star would break apart as it approached the sun sometime last September, the comet actually remained mostly intact and has been visible in several parts of the world since then. It is most notable throughout the Southern Hemisphere.

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New Yorkers can expect to see the celestial spectacle at its peak until October 26, when the next full moon is expected. Right now is the perfect time to go looking for the comet, considering the leaves are changing color quickly and will reach their fall peak in the next few weeks. If you're particularly lucky, you might even see the Northern Lights in the north of the state, as the ongoing solar storm means they're visible much further south than usual.

There are, of course, unique challenges to seeing the comet from New York. For one, our light pollution is quite severe and you will be hard-pressed to find a large area of ​​land where you can experience complete darkness and have optimal visibility. Do not worryBut: There are ways to increase your chances of discovering this once-in-a-lifetime event.

NASA recommends starting your search for the comet shortly after dark and looking southwest, about 10 degrees from the horizon. If you're really into astronomy, you know where the constellations Sagittarius and Scorpio are located – the comet will fall right between them. If you don't know anything about it, we recommend you reach out to someone who does, just so you don't look in the wrong direction.

The comet is expected to completely disappear from view in November and, as previously mentioned, will not be visible again for 8,000 long years – so try not to miss this opportunity if possible.