The coma and long tail of comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, also called C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan–ATLAS), is currently shining at magnitude +0.5. That's well within the grasp of the human eye. It's likely now past its best, but only just, and will likely remain a naked-eye object after sunset in the west until, and possibly through, the weekend.

The Hunter's Moon of October 2024 will be the largest full moon of the year thanks to its proximity to Earth. The moon arrived at perigee, its closest point to Earth in its slightly elliptical, or oval-shaped orbit, on the evening of Wednesday (Oct. 16), coming within just 221,938 miles (357,174 kilometers) of our planet.

October will feature yet another rare celestial treat. Look to the night sky to see the biggest supermoon of the year along with Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS.

A rare celestial event is lighting up the night sky this month as Comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas makes its closest approach to Earth for the first time in roughly 80,000 years.

ATLAS, also known as C/2023 A3 or simply Comet A3, has emerged as one of the most impressive naked-eye comets this year. As the sun dips below the horizon on Tuesday evening, October 15, sky enthusiasts are poised for a treat.

Central Iowans still have the chance to view another celestial show this month. Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS appeared in night skies over the Northern Hemisphere earlier in October. The comet came within 44 million miles of Earth over the weekend and will still be visible for the next couple of weeks.

The hunter's moon, the first full moon of fall, will be visible Thursday. It will also be the third consecutive supermoon of 2024. See schedule.

Four telescopes will be set up there by Indira Gandhi Planetarium and UP Amateur Astronomers’ Club. No entry fee will be charged to view the giant moon and planets.