Dr. Alaa Azzam recently spoke on Jordanian University Radio about the rare opportunity to observe the green comet, which is expected to be visible in the sky in the coming days. She explained that this event is a unique astronomical phenomenon and that residents of Jordan can easily observe the comet using small telescopes or even with the naked eye, provided the viewing conditions are favorable.
Dr Azzam also highlighted the scientific significance of this occurrence. The green comet provides a valuable opportunity for researchers to study the formation and movement of comets through space. It also offers important insights into the chemical composition of comets, potentially shedding light on the history of our solar system and the evolution of planets.
The comet, officially named C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), has captured the attention of astronomers worldwide due to its striking green color, caused by the interaction of sunlight with gases in its tail, particularly cyanide. As it passes close to the Sun, it will be visible in many parts of the world. Dr. Azzam also noted that this comet is an exceptionally rare event, as it can only be observed once every 500,000 years, making its appearance a truly extraordinary astronomical phenomenon.
Dr. Azzam also mentioned C/2022 E3 (ZTF), the green comet that passed by Earth in early 2023. Discovered in March 2022 by astronomers using the Zwicky Transient Facility, this comet was notable for its distinct green glow. It made its closest approach to Earth on February 1, 2023, coming within about 26 million miles. The green color was due to the presence of diatomic carbon in its coma. This comet was especially rare, as it had not passed near Earth for about 50,000 years.