CometCharles LilloComet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), cometComment

Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS)

CometCharles LilloComet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), cometComment
Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS)

I captured a more detailed image of Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) under darker skies at Harold Campbell West, using a telescope for a more zoomed-in view. The comet’s distinctive anti-tail is now clearly visible! This shot consists of 9 stacked images, each with a 30-second exposure, aligned with the comet.

Comet C/2023 A3 is a long-period comet discovered in early 2023 by observatories in China and South Africa. It’s currently brightening as it approaches the inner solar system and is predicted to reach its closest point to the Sun (perihelion) in October 2024, potentially becoming visible to the naked eye. The anti-tail phenomenon occurs due to the comet’s dust and gas interacting with the solar wind, creating a striking tail that seems to point toward the Sun.

  • Location: Harold Campbell West

  • Camera: Nikon Z6 II

  • Mount: ZWO AM5 (tracking, but not guiding)

  • Stacking: 9 x 30-second exposures, comet aligned

This image of Comet Atlas was taken the night before on the 13th, using just a tripod, dslr with an 85mm camera lens. A single 5 second exposure.

I’ve been a dedicated to Squarespace fan for 20 years. Love the product, people and company.

CometCharles LilloComet Leonard (C/2021 A1), CometComment

Comet Leonard (C/2021 A1)

Comet Leonard, a dazzling visitor from the outer reaches of our solar system, is currently gracing our night skies with its ethereal presence. Named after the astronomer who discovered it, Gregory J. Leonard, this cosmic wanderer is a testament to the wonders of the cosmos. Comet Leonard's brilliant nucleus, composed of dust and ice, reflects the Sun's light, creating a luminous tail that stretches across the celestial canvas. As it journeys through our solar system on its long elliptical path, it has captivated the hearts and cameras of astrophotographers around the world. In this stunning image, the photographer has masterfully captured the intricate details of Comet Leonard, showcasing its delicate, gossamer-like tail as it dances through the depths of space. This celestial spectacle serves as a reminder of the boundless beauty and mysteries that our universe continues to unveil.

CometCharles LilloComet Leonard (C/2021 A1), CometComment
Comet Leonard (C/2021 A1)
Charles LilloComment

High-Resolution Capture of Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS)

Captured under Bortle 4 skies on a moonless night along the Blue Ridge Parkway, I stacked 60 images of Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) using an APO 135mm lens and ZWO 2600 Duo OSC camera. With 60-second exposures and added calibration files, I was able to bring out the comet's vibrant coma, detailed tail, and striking anti-tail.

Charles LilloComment
High-Resolution Capture of Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS)