– Supermoon and comet in the evening sky over Switzerland
On Thursday evening, we recommend a dark place with a clear view to the east and west: shortly after sunset there will be a double celestial spectacle.
The comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas photographed over the “Red Rock” Canyon near Las Vegas on October 13th.
Foto: Ethan Miller (Getty Images)
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Sky watchers can look forward to a double spectacle in the sky on Thursday evening – if the weather cooperates. In the early evening there is a particularly large full moon in the southeast – too Supermond called – on. In the west it moves Komet Tsuchinshan-Atlas its path.
The actual full moon will be reached on Thursday at 1:26 p.m. (CEST), on this day the Earth’s satellite will come within 357,174 kilometers of its planet. For comparison: If it is particularly far away, the distance can be 406,000 kilometers. “The moon orbits the Earth in an elliptical orbit,” says amateur astronomer Uwe Pilz from the Association of Star Friends. “That’s why it is sometimes closer to the earth, sometimes further away.”
In general, the moon appears particularly powerful when it is low – and not high in the sky. This “moon illusion” or “moon illusion” is because those viewing it place it in relation to earthly objects on the horizon, such as mountains, trees or buildings, explains Pilz.
The coincidence of the full moon and proximity to the earth leads to extreme tides such as spring tides – because the sun, moon and earth are in one line. Any autumn storms can intensify this effect.
Full moon obscures view of Tsuchinshan Atlas
Comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas will probably be best seen at the beginning of the week. After that it becomes fainter. Because it will be cloudy in the next few days, you’ll need a bit of luck.
An image of the comet over Geneva on October 11th.
Photo: Martial Trezzini (Keystone)
The comet is a good two fists to the right of the evening star, Venus, explains expert Pilz. Anyone who wants to observe the supermoon and the comet on Thursday evening should not wait too long: Tsuchinshan Atlas is still close to the sun. About three quarters of an hour after sunset is a good time to keep an eye out. The comet’s visibility is affected by the light of the rising full moon.
The comet is to the right of Venus.
Visualization: Association of Star Friends
If you want to photograph the comet, it’s best to use a tripod – or lean your smartphone against something. With a longer exposure time, the comet’s tail becomes visible. It’s best to use the self-timer to avoid blurring the photo. The last time a comet was as bright as this was… Summer 2020 with Neowise (C/2020 F3) to see.
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