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 best comet of the year is starting to fade in brightness, but it’s still an easy naked-eye object in the evening sky.

Photographers have immortalized Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS and you can, too. But you'd better be quick – it won't be around for much longer

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.

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.

For skygazers interested in seeing this rare sight, you should train your eyes on the western horizon between 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Atlas, a rare and bright comet, should be visible through October, weather permitting. The comet is expected to be visible to the naked eye, but binoculars or telescopes will provide a better view. Comets are frozen remnants from the solar system’s formation.