October 15, 2024
Rare comet to grace ngā rangi o te uru
A rare comet is making its first appearance in 80,000 years and will be visible in our western skies.
Astronomer Josh Alder says Comet C/2023 A3 offers a unique opportunity to see a bright, naked-eye comet.
The best evenings to view the comet will be later in the week, about an hour after sunset.
“So, from about 8:00 to 8:30/9:00 PM, you have about a 45-minute window to see it in the western sky. It’s quite low and is setting just after the sun. For the best viewing conditions, you need a clear sky and an unobstructed view of the horizon. If you can get to the West Coast, that’s ideal, but otherwise, any slightly elevated spot with a clear view to the west will give you the best chance to see the comet,” says Aoraki.





