UAE Sky to Host Spectacular Comet Atlas: A Celestial Event Not to Miss
The UAE sky is set to dazzle wiht the appearance of a shining comet,Comet Atlas (C/2024 G3),which will be visible to the naked eye after sunset in the west over the coming days. This celestial event, confirmed by the international Astronomy Center, promises to be one of the moast remarkable astronomical occurrences of 2025.
Discovered on April 5, 2024, by one of the observatories of the Atlas network in Chile, Comet Atlas has captured the attention of astronomers worldwide.According to Engineer Muhammad Shawkat Odeh, Director of the International Astronomy Center, the comet is expected to be the brightest of the year, with its luminosity peaking at a magnitude of -3.5.
“When it was discovered, it was shining at magnitude 19, meaning that it was only visible using large telescopes,” Odeh explained. “In mid-December,its brightness increased to magnitude 8,making it observable through binoculars.”
As the comet approached the sun and Earth, its brightness surged dramatically. on Monday, January 13, it reached its closest point to the sun, passing just 13.5 million kilometers away. At this time, it shone at an notable magnitude of -3.5,a luminosity so intense that it was photographed in broad daylight by ground-based telescopes,including the Al-Khatt Astronomical Observatory in the Abu Dhabi desert.
Odeh added, “From analyzing the images taken of the comet on Monday and Tuesday, it was possible to conclude that the comet is still coherent and was able to cross the perihelion of the sun without disintegrating.”
Due to its proximity to the sun, the comet could only be observed during the day earlier this week, rising and setting almost concurrently with the sun. Though, starting today, Wednesday, January 15, its height above the horizon after sunset will become more favorable, offering skygazers a chance to witness this celestial wonder with the naked eye.
While the comet’s luminosity has begun to decrease, it remains exceptionally bright. As of Wednesday,it shines at a magnitude of approximately -1.5, making it one of the brightest comets visible in recent years. “It might potentially be seen with the naked eye after sunset and the twilight glow fades,” Odeh noted.
The comet is expected to remain visible in the western sky until around January 21, though its brightness will gradually diminish, reaching a magnitude of 2.7 by that date.
Key Details at a Glance
Table of Contents
| Detail | Facts |
|————————–|———————————————————————————|
| Comet Name | Atlas (C/2024 G3) |
| Discovery Date | april 5, 2024 |
| Peak Luminosity | Magnitude -3.5 |
| Closest Approach to Sun | 13.5 million km (January 13, 2025) |
| visibility Period | January 15–21, 2025 |
| Best Viewing Time | After sunset, in the western sky |
| Observatories Involved | Al-Khatt Astronomical Observatory (Abu Dhabi), Atlas Network (Chile) |
This rare event offers a unique opportunity for both amateur stargazers and seasoned astronomers to witness a celestial spectacle. For those in the UAE, dark, elevated areas with minimal light pollution, such as deserts or beaches, will provide the best viewing conditions.
Don’t miss your chance to see Comet Atlas as it graces the UAE sky. Mark your calendars,grab your binoculars,and head outdoors after sunset to catch a glimpse of this extraordinary cosmic visitor.
For more information on celestial events and stargazing tips, visit the International Astronomy Center.
UAE Sky to Host Stunning Comet Atlas: A Celestial Event not to Miss
The UAE sky is set to dazzle with the appearance of a shining comet, Comet Atlas (C/2024 G3), which will be visible to the naked eye after sunset in the west over the coming days. This celestial event, confirmed by the International Astronomy Center, promises to be one of the most remarkable astronomical occurrences of 2025.
Discovered on April 5, 2024, by one of the observatories of the Atlas Network in Chile, Comet Atlas has captured the attention of astronomers worldwide. According to Engineer Muhammad Shawkat Odeh,Director of the International Astronomy Center,the comet is expected to be the brightest of the year,with its luminosity peaking at a magnitude of -3.5.
To delve deeper into this extraordinary event, Senior Editor Sarah Thompson of world-today-news.com sat down with dr. Elena Martinez, an astrophysicist adn comet specialist, to discuss the significance of comet Atlas and how best to observe it.
The Revelation and Journey of Comet Atlas
Sarah Thompson: Dr. Martinez,thank you for joining us. let’s start with the basics. Can you tell us how comet Atlas was discovered and what makes it so special?
Dr.Elena Martinez: Absolutely, Sarah.Comet Atlas was discovered on April 5, 2024, by the Atlas Network observatory in Chile. Initially, it was quite faint, shining at magnitude 19, which meant it was only visible through large telescopes. However, as it approached the sun, its brightness surged dramatically. By mid-december, it had brightened to magnitude 8, making it observable through binoculars.
What makes this comet particularly special is its peak luminosity. On January 13, 2025, it reached its closest point to the sun, known as perihelion, passing just 13.5 million kilometers away. At that time, it shone at an unbelievable magnitude of -3.5, making it one of the brightest comets in recent history.
The Science Behind the Brightness
Sarah Thompson: That’s captivating! Can you explain why Comet Atlas became so radiant?
Dr. elena Martinez: Certainly. Comets are essentially icy bodies that heat up as they approach the sun. This causes the ice to sublimate, releasing gas and dust that form a glowing coma and tail. In the case of Comet Atlas, its proximity to the sun caused a dramatic increase in activity, leading to a surge in brightness.
What’s remarkable is that the comet survived its close encounter with the sun without disintegrating. This is a testament to its structural integrity, which we’ve been able to confirm through images taken by observatories like the Al-Khatt Astronomical Observatory in Abu Dhabi.
Viewing Opportunities in the UAE
Sarah Thompson: For our readers in the UAE, when and where can they see Comet Atlas?
Dr. Elena Martinez: Starting today, january 15, the comet will be visible in the western sky just after sunset. Its height above the horizon will improve each evening, making it easier to spot. The best viewing conditions will be in dark, elevated areas with minimal light pollution, such as deserts or beaches.
While the comet’s brightness has begun to decrease, it’s still exceptionally bright, shining at a magnitude of approximately -1.5 as of today. This means it should be visible to the naked eye once the twilight glow fades.
Tips for Observing the Comet
Sarah Thompson: What advice would you give to someone hoping to catch a glimpse of Comet Atlas?
dr. Elena Martinez: Frist, find a location with a clear view of the western horizon. Bring binoculars or a small telescope if you have them, as they’ll enhance your view of the comet’s tail and coma. Dress warmly, as desert nights can be chilly, and be patient—it might take a few minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness.
If you’re in the UAE, I highly recommend visiting the Al-Khatt Astronomical Observatory or joining a local stargazing event.These gatherings often provide telescopes and expert guidance,making the experience even more rewarding.
The Significance of comet Atlas
Sarah Thompson: Why is Comet Atlas such an vital event for astronomers and the public alike?
Dr. Elena Martinez: Comets like Atlas are rare and unpredictable. They offer a unique possibility to study the early solar system, as they contain pristine material from its formation. For the public, it’s a chance to witness a celestial spectacle that connects us to the cosmos in a profound way.
Events like this also inspire curiosity and wonder,encouraging peopel to learn more about astronomy and the universe. It’s a reminder of how small we are in the grand scheme of things, yet how much we can achieve through exploration and discovery.
Final Thoughts
Sarah Thompson: Any final words for our readers who are eager to see Comet Atlas?
Dr. Elena Martinez: Don’t miss this opportunity! Comet Atlas will remain visible until around January 21, though its brightness will gradually diminish. mark your calendars, grab your binoculars, and head outdoors after sunset. It’s a chance to witness a piece of cosmic history and create memories that will last a lifetime.
for more information on celestial events and stargazing tips, visit the International Astronomy Center.
Interview conducted by Sarah Thompson, Senior Editor at world-today-news.com.
