Photographing Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to capture stunning celestial beauty. This guide walks you through tips and recommendations for shooting the comet under the region’s dark, clear skies. Whether you’re an astrophotography enthusiast or a beginner, this post will help you make the most of this rare event. Don’t miss your chance to photograph this once-in-a lifetime comet!
Introduction: The Magic of Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS)
Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) is one of the most exciting astronomical phenomena of the decade! Discovered simultaneously in early 2023 by observatories in China and Hawaii, this long-period comet has captured the attention of astronomers and astrophotographers alike. Expected to become visible to the naked eye all of October 2024, Comet C/2023 A3 offers a rare and incredible opportunity for night sky photographers to capture a celestial object that won’t return for thousands of years. Its bright tail and glowing coma promise to light up the sky, making it a prime target for those interested in capturing its beauty with their cameras.
Comets like C/2023 A3 are significant not only for their rarity but for their stunning visual displays. As the comet approaches the sun, the heat causes it to shed gas and dust, forming a distinctive tail that makes it such an awe-inspiring sight. The brightness and length of the tail are unpredictable, adding an element of excitement and challenge for photographers looking to document its journey through the night sky.
For those who enjoy night sky photography, this is a unique chance to create once-in-a-lifetime images of a celestial event that will not come again for generations. Whether you are a seasoned astrophotographer or just starting out, Comet C/2023 A3 offers a fantastic subject to capture. Understanding the comet’s background, its projected visibility window, and how to prepare for photographing it is key to making the most of this cosmic event.
Comet C3 Tsuchinshan-Atlas (C/2023 A3) caught on 10/12/2024 above a fiery sunset horizon, as seen from the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
Best Time to Photograph Comet C/2023 A3 is Right Now
Comet C/2023 A3 is expected to make its closest approach to Earth in late 2024. For observers in the Northern Hemisphere, the comet will remain visible mid-to-late October through November. This period offers optimal visibility as the comet passes close enough to the sun for its tail to illuminate brightly against the night sky. However, the bright phases of the moon will make spotting the comet challenging at least until tomorrow, October 20th. In the Southern Hemisphere, the comet will stay relatively close to the Sun, making it harder to spot at first. However, visibility will steadily improve as the days go by. By around October 16th, observers in southern latitudes will have a better chance to see Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, as its distance from the Sun increases, making it more accessible for viewing.
Shooting Windows:
- Dusk into Night: In late October (now), the comet will only be visible after sunset into the night in the Northern hemisphere. Shooting during this window allows you to combine the comet with dramatic foregrounds like mountains or forests under a darker starry sky.
- Peak Visibility Dates: The comet is expected to be most visible around its perihelion (closest point to the sun) in late October and early November. During this time, it will be brighter and easier to capture with longer exposure shots.
In late September and early October the comet was visible in the predawn hours. Now in late October and beyond this is no longer possible, as the sun will overpower any chance to see it.
If you’re aiming to capture the comet at its brightest, mid to late October will offer the best chance, as it should be visible without the need for binoculars or telescopes during this time. However, tracking the comet’s exact position via astronomy apps (PhotoPills, Stellarium, Star Walk 2) or websites like NASA’s Near-Earth Object Program will help you stay updated on any changes in its visibility.
Capturing the Shot: My Experience Photographing Comet C/2023 A3
On October 12th, 2024, Comet C/2023 A3 was projected to be at its brightest, passing its closest point to Earth. I was lucky enough to be in New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest at the time, chasing the autumn foliage. With the White Mountains known for their pristine skies and minimal light pollution (Bortle 2), I knew this would be an ideal location to catch a clear view of the comet—if the conditions played along.
Through my research, I discovered that the comet’s path was similar to the sun’s, so I planned my shoot around astronomical twilight (about an hour after sunset) for the best viewing opportunity. Finding a spot with a clear west/southwest view of the horizon was crucial. With the abundance of mountain peaks offering sweeping vistas, I had several choices but didn’t want a grueling hike given the extra gear I’d be carrying: a tripod, wide-angle zoom, and telephoto zoom lenses. I narrowed it down to three possible trails:
I settled on Middle Sugarloaf Trail for its near 360-degree views, as seen in a YouTube video. Starting the hike around 4:30 PM, I aimed to reach the summit before sunset at 6:09 PM. I have to admit the trail was steeper than I expected, but the views from the top were breathtaking. As the sun dipped below the horizon, I enjoyed the fiery glow over the autumn landscape, but I was there for a different reason.
Left: The setting sun over the west-southwest horizon where I knew to track the comet from. Right: The waxing gibbous moon behind me as I waited for astronomical twilight.
By the time the summit crowd thinned, and I found myself alone, the temperature dropped sharply. The wind picked up, adding a challenge to the long exposures I was planning. Around 6:40 PM, as nautical twilight began, I started taking wide-angle shots in the area where the sun had set. And there it was. After some trial and patience, I saw Comet C/2023 A3 appear on my camera screen. As the skies darkened further, the comet became visible to the naked eye, and I managed to capture some clear shots.
Left: Comet C3 Tsuchinshan-Atlas (C/2023 A3) seen over the peak foliage of White Mountain National Park in New Hampshire – shot at 70mm, f.28, 6″, ISO 100; Right: Comet caught over a fiery sunset horizon – shot at 200mm, f2.8, 8″, ISO 100.
While I would have loved to stay longer to capture a timelapse of the comet sinking below the horizon, the cold forced me to retreat. In post-production, I realized I had my shutter open too long on the 200mm lens, leading to slight star trailing in the background. Nonetheless, the experience was unforgettable, and I was thrilled to walk away with some great shots. Next time, I’d love to capture:
- A timelapse of the comet setting behind the horizon.
- A detailed night sky shot featuring the comet and stars.
- A wide-angle environmental portrait with the comet as a backdrop.
Closing out this incredible experience, I can say that capturing Comet C/2023 A3 in the White Mountains was truly unforgettable. The frigid temperatures, the peaceful solitude, and the thrill of finally spotting the comet made it all worthwhile. Moments like these remind me of why I chase the stars—it’s not just about the photo, but about being present for those fleeting, awe-inspiring events that connect us with the cosmos.
If you’re thinking about heading out to capture this comet, or any celestial event, I encourage you to take the leap. Whether you’re a seasoned astrophotographer or just getting started, moments like this are worth the effort. Plan ahead, bring the right gear, and be patient—you never know what you’ll walk away with!
For more adventures, tips, and to follow along on my future hikes and photography journeys, make sure to check out my social media. I’d love to see your comet shots or hear about your own experiences out under the stars! Feel free to connect with me on Instagram and Youtube, and don’t forget to drop any questions or share your stories in the comments below. Keep looking up, and happy shooting!
