January is a month full of fascinating astronomical events that excite both experienced observers and amateur stargazers. We’ve already had the opportunity to witness many interesting events at the beginning of the year, and now another attraction is approaching – the close approach of the 62P/Tsuchinshan comet to Earth.
The 62P/Tsuchinshan comet, which completes its orbit around the Sun every 6.38 years, will reach its closest point to our planet on January 29, 2024. This is a perfect opportunity to observe it, especially with binoculars. However, it’s important to remember that weather conditions can affect the visibility of the object, so it’s best to observe the night sky away from city lights and under clear skies.
According to the In The Sky website, the 62P/Tsuchinshan comet will be visible above the eastern horizon of Poland at around 23:06. It will reach its highest point in the sky at 3:35 and disappear around 5:54. Its brightness will be about 9.5 magnitude, which means it can be observed with binoculars with a lens diameter of 40-50 mm.
The 62P/Tsuchinshan comet, commonly known as the “binocular comet,” was discovered at the Zijinshan Astronomical Observatory in China in January 1965. It is a short-period comet that orbits the Sun in less than 200 years. Currently, it can be found in the constellation Leo, near the star Denebola, which is about 36 light-years away from our Sun.
But there’s more! On the same day, we will also have Starlink satellites – Elon Musk’s “space train” – appearing in the sky. Their passes will be visible at 17:19 and 18:52. Both the comet and the Starlink satellites can be observed with good sky conditions and favorable weather.
This unique cosmic event will undoubtedly amaze both astronomy enthusiasts and anyone who wants to witness the extraordinary phenomena of our universe. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and get your binoculars ready for January 29!
FAQ:
1. Which comet will be observable on January 29, 2024?
The comet that can be observed on that day is the 62P/Tsuchinshan comet.
2. What is the 62P/Tsuchinshan comet?
The 62P/Tsuchinshan comet is a short-period comet that completes its orbit around the Sun every 6.38 years.
3. When will be the best time to observe the comet?
The best time to observe the 62P/Tsuchinshan comet will be around 23:06, and it will reach its highest point in the sky at 3:35.
4. What will be the brightness of the 62P/Tsuchinshan comet?
The comet’s brightness will be around 9.5 magnitude, which means it can be observed with binoculars with a lens diameter of 40-50 mm.
5. Where is the best place to observe the comet?
It is best to observe the comet away from city lights and under clear skies.
6. What are Starlink satellites?
Starlink satellites are Elon Musk’s “space train,” and they will be visible in the sky on the same day.
7. When will we be able to see the Starlink satellites?
The passes of the Starlink satellites will be visible at 17:19 and 18:52.
8. Do I need special equipment to observe the comet and Starlink satellites?
To observe both the comet and Starlink satellites, good sky conditions and favorable weather are sufficient.
9. Is it worth observing these phenomena?
Yes, this unique cosmic event will undoubtedly amaze both astronomy enthusiasts and anyone who wants to witness the extraordinary phenomena of our universe.
Definitions:
– Comet: An astronomical object consisting of a nucleus, coma, and tails, moving along elliptical orbits around the Sun.
– Binoculars: A portable optical instrument consisting of two telescopic tubes connected by a bridge, used for observing distant objects.
– Magnitude (mag): A unit of measurement used to determine the brightness of astronomical objects.
– Constellation: A group of stars that form a pattern in the sky.
Suggested links:
– in-the-sky.org
– spacex.com
The source of the article is from the blog reporterosdelsur.com.mx