Comet C/2023 A3 will be visible from Earth after 80,000 years. Here's where to watch it

After more than 80,000 years, a comet will again become visible from Earth - in a treat for the sky gazers - during two separate phases in the next month.

Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, which is also called Comet A3, will now orbit around the Sun after more than 80,000 years,according to a report published on Earth.com.

The comet has become visible from Earth from September 27 and will appear in the sky before sunrise on October 2.

It is likely to appear like a fuzzy ball with a tail which stretches across the sky.

"C/2023 A3 has an orbital period of approximately 80,000 years, classifying it as a long-period comet. This means its behaviour and appearance can be unpredictable, with potential changes in brightness and tail development as it approaches the sun," said Minjae Kim, a space expert in the University of Warwick's astronomy department, while speaking to Earth.com.

"If predictions hold, it could be visible to the naked eye, appearing as a fuzzy star with a tail stretching across the sky.Otherwise, binoculars or a small telescope may reveal more detail in the comet’s structure and tail," Kim explained.

The comet achieved its perihelion on September 27 which means it came to the closest point to the sun and will not go on a trip back towards the outer solar system,as per WKMG.

The comet will also become visible in the middle of October if the comet lives after its trip around the Sun. This is because comets generally break apart as they come closer to the sun.

After the trip, the comet will become visible to the naked eye when it comes closest to Earth and its best visibility is likely to be from October 12 until October 20.

Every night, the comet will move higher up in the sky till it disappears again for the next 80,000 years.

Watch:Two black holes caught merging, event to provide insight into galaxy formation

Astronomical app for stargazers Starwalk said that this comet is the "most anticipated comet of the year."

Here's how you can watch Comet C/2023 A3

Those who wish to see the comet with the naked eye should check the moon in its waning crescent phase. The comet's position can change as per the moon on different dates.

Comet C/2023 A3 is nearly 157.1 million miles away from Earth and is travelling at a speed of around 70km per second (150,000 miles per hour).

(With inputs from agencies)