First Glimpse of Comet C/2023 A3

Comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, having swung around the sun and headed to the outer reaches of the solar system, is now climbing higher in our evening sky each night. Today marks its closest approach to Earth, so I went out to capture it.

I took this shot from the east shore of White Rock Lake, with the old Pump Station and its distinctive smokestack in view. Despite A3's brightness, it's a challenge to spot in urban areas without optical aids. Even with my Nikon D750, while the coma is easily visible, the tail remains quite faint.

Over the next week, the comet will rise higher above the horizon's haze, improving visibility. However, it's a double-edged sword - as it climbs, it will also retreat from Earth, gradually dimming until it's only visible through a telescope.

I'm planning another attempt in a few days, hoping to capture a better shot of that elusive tail. If you're interested in catching a glimpse of this cosmic visitor, find a spot with a clear western horizon in the hour after sunset between now and the end of the month. It's worth the effort!

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