Residents of Bengaluru were astonished when the sky transformed into a vibrant display of pink, green, and yellow hues. Initially thought to be an iridescent cloud formation or an atmospheric anomaly, this captivating spectacle sparked widespread curiosity, prompting many onlookers to share photos and videos on social media.
One user on X, Vihar Vaghasiya, posted an image of the colorful skies and asked, “Bengaluru skies being just magical! What is this phenomenon even called?” The source of the dazzling lights was soon identified as Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan–ATLAS) passing near Earth. This non-periodic comet is unpredictable in its appearances, making its sighting above Bengaluru a rare treat for sky-gazers.
#Bengaluru sky right now.
Mini aurora borealis kinda sky🧿♥️
Colors! pic.twitter.com/MjWpbuuroI
— Prachi Pareekh (@prachipareekh) September 29, 2024
Astrophysicist RC Kapoor noted that comets like C/2023 A3 are “virtual outsiders to our solar system” and are rarely observed due to their irregular orbits. Some viewers saw the comet as a streak of light, while others noticed its effect on cloud formations, enhancing the iridescent glow. Kapoor mentioned that it will be visible in the morning during the first few days of October.
“From October 12, it will be visible in the west soon after sunset. It will be at its closest to Earth, making it possible to see with the naked eye,” he added.
Discovered on January 9, 2023, by the Purple Mountain Observatory in China, the comet has generated significant buzz on social media. Astrophotographer Upendra Pinnelli shared, “The comet is visiting the Solar System after more than 80,000 years and is currently about 129.6 million kilometers away in the Sextans constellation.” Reports also indicate that residents of Hyderabad may have the opportunity to witness the comet, with sightings possible until October 2, according to Deccan Chronicle.
