**Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS To Illuminate San Antonio Skies**

San Antonio's night sky is about to dazzle astronomy enthusiasts with a rare celestial event. From October 11 through 18, the recently discovered Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS will make a special appearance, delighting stargazers just after sunset.

For those eager to catch a glimpse of this astronomical wonder, the best viewing times will be around 40 minutes after sunset, roughly between 7:40 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. The comet will be located in the western sky, just a bit to the right of Venus, which will appear as a bright star low on the horizon. Early sightings on October 11 may present a challenge due to its low position, but each subsequent evening will offer better and higher visibility.

To spot the comet, find an open area away from city lights. Locate Venus, and then look slightly to the right. The comet should appear as a hazy star with a small tail. For even better clarity, extend your left arm with a closed fist; the comet will be about two and a half fist lengths to the right of Venus. Binoculars can enhance the viewing experience and help you see the comet more clearly.

Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS is a large chunk of dirty ice discovered by two independent observation teams last year—one from China's Purple Mountain Observatory and the other from South Africa's Asteroid Terrestrial-Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS). As this icy traveler comes within 44 million miles of Earth, the sun's rays cause the comet's ice to evaporate, creating a visible haze of dust and gases illuminated by the twilight sun angle.

Take advantage of this extraordinary opportunity to witness Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS's journey across the night sky, and don't forget to bring your binoculars for the best view!