How to Watch a Once-in-160,000-Year Comet Predicted to Shine Brighter Than Venus

Mar. 15, 2025

Comet seen in the sky.Photo:MARIANA SUAREZ/AFP via Getty

MARIANA SUAREZ/AFP via Getty

You are not going to want to miss this!

Comet G3 ATLAS (C/2024) is expected to make its return for a close encounter with the Sun in mid-January, giving skywatchers the chance to spot one of the brightest comets in 20 years from Earth.

Whileastronomers and scientistseagerly await the extremity of how bright the comet will shine, the space organization notes that it’s “notoriously hard” to predict a comet’s appearance in advance. However, based on its history, there’s a solid chance it could become the “brightest comet” of 2025.

According to the Planetary Society, some experts thought Comet G3 ATLAS would “break apart” when it got close to the Sun amid its orbit (also known as “perihelion”), but stances have changed based on new research. Recent research hints the comet is on an approximate “160,000-year orbit.”

This means Comet G3 ATLAS has likely “survived at least one close approach to the Sun before,” the organization reports. That brings exciting news for skywatchers who’d love to catch a glimpse of the spectacle, though visibility won’t be the same for everyone.

Fortunately, for those who will have a chance at spotting the comet, it’s likely to be spottable with basic technology. Binoculars or a telescope can do the trick, however; the naked eye won’t be able to spot it alone.

Read on for everything to know about the rare and bright Comet G3 ATLAS, including when and how to spot it from Earth.

When will Comet G3 ATLAS be visible from Earth?

Comet G3 ATLAS (C/2024) barely seen at dawn from Montevideo on Jan. 8, 2025.MARIANA SUAREZ/AFP via Getty

Comet G3 ATLAS (C/2024) is predicted to be visible from parts of Earth throughout the month. On Jan. 13, the comet is expected to reach perihelion (its closest point to the Sun).

At this time, the comet will come within approximately 8.3 million miles of the Sun. The same day, it’s also predicted to reach its closest point to Earth. Radiating an expected magnitude of -4.5, its brightness can potentially rival Venus' shine.

Where will Comet G3 ATLAS be visible from Earth?

Many parts of the world will have the chance to spot Comet G3 ATLAS, however; one half of the Earth has a better chance at catching a glimpse. While it will be spottable in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, the latter will have an easier time viewing it.

According toSky & Telescope, though, skywatchers in the Northern Hemisphere might have the ability to spot the comet “extremely low in the southwestern sky” from about Jan. 15 to Jan 18. Simulations show its location at dusk in the days after perihelion, reports the organization.

How to spot Comet G3 ATLAS from Earth?

A comet seen in the sky.Marcos del Mazo/LightRocket via Getty

Marcos del Mazo/LightRocket via Getty

Using binoculars or a telescope would be the best way to attempt a look at Comet G3 ATLAS from Earth, as opposed to simply the naked eye. Furthermore, like all astronomical events, sky conditions must be clear (hope for no rain, clouds or fog) to increase your chances of spotting it.

Fortunately, this month’s new moon is approaching on Jan. 29. Therefore, skywatchers won’t have to contend with the moon’s bright glow drowning out the comet’s brightness in the night sky (avoid city lights and other forms of light pollution when watching from Earth, too).

When will Comet G3 ATLAS be visible from Earth again?

Comet G3 ATLAS is on an approximate 160,000-year orbit, meaning it won’t be back for millenniums. In conclusion, point your eyes to the sky… now!

source: people.com