C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) : La Comète la Plus Brillante de ce début de 2025 ?

C/2024 G3 (ATLAS): The Brightest Comet of Early 2025?
January 8, 2025

The comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) promises to be one of the most captivating astronomical events of the beginning of this year. Discovered in April 2024, this long-period comet originating from the mysterious Oort cloud may offer a rare and impressive celestial spectacle, although ephemeral. Here’s everything you need to know about this celestial object and how to best observe it.

What Makes C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) Special?

C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) is classified as a "sungrazer" comet because it will approach very close to our star on January 13, 2025, at a distance of only 0.09 AU (approximately 13.5 million kilometers). This proximity could lead to a spectacular sublimation of its ice, creating an impressive glowing tail.

Current estimates suggest that the comet could reach a magnitude of -3.5, rivaling the brightness of Venus in the sky. However, its close passage to the Sun also poses a risk: the comet could disintegrate due to intense heat.

When and How to Observe C/2024 G3 (ATLAS)?

The visibility of C/2024 G3 will vary significantly depending on your location. Here are the key points for its observation:

January 13 to 15, 2025:

• From the Northern Hemisphere: The comet will be visible early in the evening, just after sunset, very close to the southwestern horizon. The optimal time will be January 14 at 17:10 UTC, although conditions will be challenging due to its proximity to the Sun.
• From the Southern Hemisphere: Observers will have better luck, as the comet will be visible at dawn and will offer a clear view after its perihelion.

Recommended Apps: Use apps like Sky Tonight or Stellarium to locate the comet accurately.

The Brightness of C/2024 G3 (ATLAS): What We Know

Since its discovery in April 2024, the comet has gone through several periods of activity:

• December 2024: Magnitude 5 to 5.5, observable with binoculars.
• January 2, 2025: A burst of activity increased its brightness to a magnitude of 3.2, visible to the naked eye under clear skies.
• January 13, 2025: Its brightness may peak at -3.5, although this prediction remains uncertain due to the unpredictable phenomena surrounding comets.

A Comet from Afar

C/2024 G3 originates from the Oort cloud, a frozen region at the outskirts of the solar system. Although this comet has likely made previous close passages around the Sun, its current orbit remains extremely elliptical, with an estimated period between 135,000 and 450,000 years.

Conclusion: An Opportunity Not to Be Missed

The comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) could be one of the most memorable celestial events of 2025, but observing it will require some preparation. At Astronomy Store, we offer all the necessary equipment to enjoy this spectacle: binoculars, portable telescopes, and sky maps. Visit our website to equip yourself and ensure you don't miss this rendezvous with the stars!