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Poznan’s Night Sky: How to Spot and Capture the ‘Comet of the Century’

Poznan’s Rare Opportunity: Witness a Celestial Visitor Last Seen by Neanderthals

This October, the night skies over Poznan offer a truly rare spectacle: Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), a celestial traveller that was last seen by humans over 80,000 years ago, during the era of the Neanderthals. Now, it returns, offering us a fleeting glimpse before it continues its ancient journey through the cosmos. This once-in-a-lifetime event gives skywatchers in Poznan a chance to witness a piece of history far older than human civilisation.

Discovered independently in 2023 by astronomers in China and South Africa, Comet A3 has travelled from the distant Oort Cloud, a region at the far edges of our solar system filled with icy bodies and comets. Its incredibly long orbit means it won’t return for tens of thousands of years, making this one of the rarest astronomical events you will ever experience. The comet glows with a greenish hue due to the presence of diatomic carbon, and its tail could stretch up to 40 times the size of the full Moon as it grows brighter through October.

When and Where to See Comet A3 in Poznan

This ancient visitor will be visible from Poznan’s skies between 15–31 October, so you have just a couple of weeks to take in this incredible event. To spot the Poznan comet visible, look west shortly after sunset as the comet travels through the constellations Serpens Caput and Ophiuchus.

For the best view, head to locations that offer a clear, unobstructed horizon and less light pollution, such as Citadel Park or the Poznan Lake District on the city’s outskirts. With the comet low in the sky, it’s important to find a spot where buildings and trees won’t block your view. Binoculars or a small telescope will help you see more detail in the comet’s glowing head and tail.

Comet A3: A Frozen Messenger from the Deep Past

Comet A3, born in the Oort Cloud, is thought to have formed during the early stages of the solar system. This icy region, more than a trillion miles from the Sun, is home to countless objects that rarely visit the inner solar system. A3’s long journey brings it into our view for a brief moment—its last visit to Earth was around 80,000 years ago, a time when early humans were still learning to make tools, and Neanderthals roamed Europe.

This historical connection adds a special meaning to Comet A3. As you gaze up at the sky, you’re witnessing something that has returned after millennia, a cosmic event that won’t happen again in our lifetime. The comet’s green glow is caused by diatomic carbon, a rare occurrence that adds to its visual uniqueness as it interacts with sunlight.

How to Capture the Poznan Comet Visible

For those looking to photograph this rare visitor, Dr. Robert Massey of the Royal Astronomical Society advises using a DSLR camera for the best results. However, even smartphones can capture stunning shots if paired with a telescope. Stabilise your phone or camera against a tripod and aim towards the western sky after sunset to capture the Poznan comet visible.

The comet’s tail is expected to grow brighter as it approaches the Sun, offering dramatic photo opportunities, similar to the famous Comet NEOWISE in 2020. Don’t miss the chance to document this once-in-80,000-years event!

Seize This Moment—It Won’t Return in Our Lifetime

With its 80,000-year orbit, Comet A3 is not just another sky event—it’s a historical moment for humankind. Imagine how different the world was when it last appeared in our skies, and how many generations will come and go before it passes by again. Don’t miss the chance to experience this spectacular reminder of the vastness and age of the universe.

Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or someone looking for a meaningful night under the stars, this is your moment. Head to Citadel Park or Poznan Lake District between now and 30 October, and witness a cosmic traveller that has outlasted entire species. A sight like this won’t come again for many lifetimes.

Barry Kirkham
Barry Kirkhamhttps://poznanmagazine.com
Poznan Magazine's spirited storyteller, mixing travel, history, and art with a splash of tech. Join him for quirky insights into Poznan's cultural scenes with upbeat local news!
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