(FreePressBeacon.com) – An extraordinary celestial event rolls out this October with the convergence of the year’s closest supermoon and the visibility of comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas, with the supermoon reaching its full phase Thursday night.
See photos and a TV report video about the event in the social media posts below!
Stargazers should have their telescopes ready, as both these heavenly bodies make a rare dual appearance.
Lovers of the night sky are in for a treat as October’s supermoon emerges as the closest and brightest of the year.
This stunning supermoon will reach its full phase by Thursday and sits just 222,055 miles away from Earth.
It’s the third out of four supermoons this year, appearing significantly closer and more dazzling than those gracing our skies in August and September.
The supermoon will pair alongside the Northern Hemisphere sighting of comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas, marking it a night to remember, AP reports.
Discovered last year, the comet presents an impressive spectacle after sunset, even as the bright lunar glow might slightly obscure its tail.
Typically, astronomers find the full moon interferes with observing other celestial wonders.
A noted astronomer expressed ambivalence, claiming, “Most astronomers hate the full moon because its bright light messes up observing other objects. So it’s a bit hard for us to wax poetic about it, even if it’s the biggest supermoon of 2024.”
Nonetheless, this cosmic conjunction provides an opportunity many won’t want to miss.
Given the ongoing efforts by America and other countries in lunar exploration, this spectacle aligns perfectly with increased global focus on the moon.
As this significant celestial alignment unfolds, observers will appreciate the magnitude of such natural phenomena.
The comet made its nearest approach to Earth on Saturday, coming as close as 44 million miles.
Clear skies will offer a northern view of Tsuchinshan-Atlas, visible to the right of Venus, while November 15th awaits with the year’s final supermoon.
Whether you’re an astronomy aficionado or just appreciate the night sky, this October sight offers a reminder of our cosmic wonder.
The heavens open a window into the dazzling wonders of our universe. Let’s revel in them while they shine!
October's supermoon pairs with a comet for a special nighttime spectacle https://t.co/8ccz9UqCuW
— WATE 6 On Your Side (@6News) October 16, 2024
October's supermoon is the closest of the year and it's teaming up with a comet for a rare stargazing two-for-one.https://t.co/f63rMu4PJA
— WTHR.com (@WTHRcom) October 16, 2024
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