Get ready, stargazers!

This October, a freshly discovered comet is making its way towards Earth, offering viewers in New York City an exceptional astronomical experience.

Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS)

is set to reach its closest approach to our planet on October 12, coming within a mere 44 million miles. As long as it doesn’t break apart, it should be clearly visible across all five boroughs. Renowned astrophysicist **Jackie Faherty** from the American Museum of Natural History describes comets as “unusual, brilliant, beautiful objects to look at.” However, she cautions enthusiasts to maintain realistic expectations, reminding them that comets can sometimes lose their brilliance as they approach the sun.

First spotted in January 2023 in China, the Tsuchinshan comet intriguingly exhibits two distinct tails: one shimmering white and the other a striking blue. The ideal time for observing this celestial wonder is just after sunset, as it traverses the constellation **Ophiuchus**, which resembles a figure holding a snake.

But that’s not all!

October is a treasure trove for astronomy lovers, showcasing **two meteor showers**, **four visible planets**, and the emergence of captivating fall constellations.

Kicking off the month,

the **Draconids meteor shower** is expected to light up the night sky starting October 6, peaking on the night of October 7 with approximately 10 shooting stars every hour. These meteors radiate from the Draco constellation and can be maximally enjoyed in the early evening hours, soaring past at a leisurely speed of 12.5 miles per second.

Following closely,

the **Orionids meteor shower** will peak on October 21. This spectacle brings twice the action, with the remnants of Halley's Comet producing shooting stars that zip by at an impressive 41 miles per second. If you missed the climax of the event, don’t fret! These meteors began their show at the end of September and will continue dazzling spectators until November 22.

Faherty recommends seeking higher vantage points for optimal star-gazing.

“A rooftop or a location along the Hudson or East Rivers,” she says, “can be ideal due to fewer obstructions from buildings and trees.”

As for the planets,

look out for **Venus**, the brightest celestial object after the moon, which will glitter post-sunset. A notably bright dot will grace the night sky next to the crescent moon on October 5. Meanwhile, **Jupiter**, the third brightest, becomes visible around 9:30 p.m. Don’t forget about **Saturn**, which can also be seen with the naked eye, while **Mars** will make an appearance just before midnight, rising earlier in the month as October progresses.

Faherty observes,

“October is a good month for planet watching,” adding that the fall constellations will enrich the tapestry of the night sky. Among them, **Orion** stands out, boasting one of the ten brightest stars, **Rigel**, renowned for its striking blue-white hue.

The great constellation **Pegasus** will also rise prominently, with its four brilliant stars forming a notable square. Its brightest star, **Enif**, marks the nose of this majestic figure and heralds the onset of autumn.

So, grab your telescopes and head outside—October’s night sky promises unforgettable sights that could captivate even the most casual observer.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this astronomical adventure!