Hello fellow star gazers! 🌌 As an amateur astronomer and night sky enthusiast, I’m beyond excited to share that Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS)—the most talked-about comet of 2024—is already gracing our skies! Right now, observers in the Southern Hemisphere are enjoying its brilliance, and it won’t be long before us in the Northern Hemisphere can join in on the excitement. So grab your binoculars and stargazing apps, because tonight could be your chance to catch this spectacular cosmic visitor!

What Makes C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) So Special?

Let’s dive into why this comet is capturing the imagination of so many. To begin with, C/2023 A3 is expected to be exceptionally bright. While its future brightness is still a work in progress (thanks to the unpredictable nature of comets), most sources agree that we might see it with the naked eye. If we’re lucky, it could even outshine the iconic Comet NEOWISE from the summer of 2020. Hasn’t it been a while since we’ve seen a comet this remarkable?

Additionally, C/2023 A3 is anticipated to develop an awe-inspiring cometary tail. After it swings past the Sun at a distance similar to Mercury’s orbit, the heat will cause its icy core to evaporate dramatically, leading to the formation of an impressive tail made of dust and gas. If history teaches us anything, it’s that comets heated by the Sun often exhibit the most striking tails.

For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, this is particularly exciting! The last time we saw such a bright comet visible from northern latitudes was during the 1997 spectacle of Comet Hale-Bopp.

How to Spot C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) in the Night Sky

Curious about how you can locate this celestial beauty? The Star Walk 2 app is your best friend! Here’s a quick guide to help you find it:

1. Download and open the Star Walk 2 app.
2. Tap the magnifier icon located at the bottom left of the screen.
3. Type in “C/2023 A3” and select the relevant search result.
4. Hold your device up to the sky, and the app will point you directly to the comet’s current position!

Is C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) Visible Now?

Good news for those in the Southern Hemisphere! Currently, C/2023 A3 is visible in the mornings, appearing low in the eastern sky just before sunrise. With a current magnitude of about 2.6, it’s brighter than anticipated and continues to brighten daily.

If you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, the comet is a bit more challenging to see due to the Sun’s brightness; however, it’ll start becoming visible in early October.

Visibility Forecast: What Lies Ahead

Let’s paint a picture of what to expect in the coming weeks:

• September 27 – October 2: This is when the comet reaches perihelion, appearing in the early morning sky.
• October 10-12: The comet will become more visible in the evening, shortly after sunset, in the constellation Virgo. These dates are critical as it will be at its brightest around October 12, making it easier to see with the naked eye.
• October 15-31: The comet will fade but will still be visible with binoculars and telescopes.

The best time for observation is likely from October 10-12, just after sunset. So get out there—don’t miss the chance to witness this celestial wonder!

Tips for Photographing C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS)

If you’re an aspiring astrophotographer like me and you want to capture this comet on film, consider following these steps:

1. Gear up: Have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, sturdy tripod, and a wide-angle or zoom lens ready.
2. Camera Settings: Use manual mode with an ISO setting between 400 and 800, and a wide aperture of f/2.8 to f/4 to let in enough light.
3. Location Matters: Pick a dark spot far from city lights. Star Walk 2 can help you find the comet’s exact location.
4. Take Multiple Shots: For detailed images, take a series of photographs and use software like DeepSkyStacker for stacking.
5. Post-processing: Tools like Photoshop will help refine your final image.

The Journey Ahead: What’s Next for C/2023 A3?

As we all wait in eager anticipation, it’s worth noting that C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) is on a long journey. It completes one orbit around the Sun roughly every 80,660 years! If you’re wondering what the future holds, after its approach in October, this comet will slowly fade from view and won’t return until the year 26,000.

To Wrap Up

Excitement is in the air as we prepare to welcome this spectacular comet! C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) is already putting on a show for observers in the Southern Hemisphere, and soon it will light up the skies for us in the North. As we gear up for this enchanting astronomical event, don’t forget to download the Star Walk 2 app to help you navigate the night sky like a pro.

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Let’s get ready to bask in the glow of C/2023 A3—happy stargazing, everyone! 🌠

Useful References

https://vitotechnology.com/apps/star-walk

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C/2023_A3_(Tsuchinshan%E2%80%93ATLAS)

https://www.skyatnightmagazine.com/advice/comet-c-2023-a3-tsuchinshan-atlas

The science section of our news blog STM Daily News provides readers with captivating and up-to-date information on the latest scientific discoveries, breakthroughs, and innovations across various fields. We offer engaging and accessible content, ensuring that readers with different levels of scientific knowledge can stay informed. Whether it’s exploring advancements in medicine, astronomy, technology, or environmental sciences, our science section strives to shed light on the intriguing world of scientific exploration and its profound impact on our daily lives. From thought-provoking articles to informative interviews with experts in the field, STM Daily News Science offers a harmonious blend of factual reporting, analysis, and exploration, making it a go-to source for science enthusiasts and curious minds alike. https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/

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(Family Features) If you’re looking to get away, fall is a perfect time to plan an escape. With smaller crowds at many popular destinations and more comfortable weather, scenic autumn landscapes and cozy hideaways await.

Planning Your Fall Vacation

To get your planning started, consider these tips to enjoy a spectacular fall vacation without breaking the bank.

Choose a Destination with Beautiful Scenery
When planning a fall vacation, research the cost of living for potential destinations. Some places may have lower costs for accommodations, dining and attractions, allowing you to stretch your budget further. Considering destinations known for their stunning fall foliage, such as New England, can allow you to take advantage of budget-friendly activities, like nature walks or sightseeing, that capitalize on the beauty and charm of the season.

Time Your Trip to Take Advantage of Deals
Timing is key when it comes to finding the best deals. Consider traveling during the shoulder season, which is the period just before or after peak tourist seasons. During this time, prices for accommodations and attractions are often lower and there are fewer crowds. If you have the freedom to choose when to go on vacation, look for off-peak days or midweek travel. Prices tend to be lower during these times compared to weekends or popular travel holidays.

Pack Essentials to Save on Unnecessary Purchases
Packing strategically can help you save money and avoid unnecessary purchases. Consider packing these essentials:

• Layered clothing: Instead of bulky sweaters or coats, opt for lightweight layers that can be easily combined to keep you warm.
• Reusable water bottles: Bringing a reusable water bottle helps you avoid buying bottled water and reduces waste.
• Snacks: Packing snacks like granola bars or dried fruit can help you reduce food costs while you’re out and about.
• Travel-size toiletries: Transfer your favorite products into smaller containers or purchase travel-size bottles instead of buying pre-packaged versions.

Pick Budget-Friendly Activities and Attractions
Popular destinations often offer a wide range of budget-friendly activities and attractions. Consider these ideas that won’t break the bank:

• Hiking and nature walks: Take advantage of the beautiful fall foliage by exploring hiking trails and nature reserves. Many of these outdoor activities are free or have minimal entrance fees.
• Local festivals and events: Research local festivals and events happening during your trip to immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the area.
• Local markets: Explore farmers markets or craft markets to discover unique products and support local businesses. Often free to enter, these markets offer opportunities to sample local food and purchase souvenirs.
• Museums and galleries: Look for museums and galleries that offer free or discounted admission during certain days or times to explore local art and history without spending a fortune.

Save on Accommodations
Finding affordable accommodations during the peak of fall can be challenging, but with these tips, you can save money while still enjoying a comfortable stay:

• Book in advance: Plan your vacation early and take advantage of early bird discounts or promotional offers.
• Consider alternative accommodations: Instead of traditional hotels, explore options like vacation rentals, hostels or bed and breakfasts, which can be more budget-friendly and provide a unique and personalized experience.
• Stay outside the city center: Accommodations located outside main tourist areas are generally more affordable. Consider staying in nearby suburbs or towns and utilize public transportation to explore the city.
• Use price comparison tools: Take advantage of price comparison websites to compare rates across different accommodations to find the best deals and save money on your stay.

Find more tips and tricks to save on fall travel at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

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FISH CAMP, Calif. /PRNewswire/ — Tenaya at Yosemite is pleased to announce the completion of a 244-room remodel in its main Lodge, along with the addition of new amenities to enhance each guest’s experience.

Tenaya at Yosemite

Inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement, Tenaya at Yosemite reimagined the era’s timeless charm with a modern touch. The rooms are designed with a focus on warm wood tones and a palette of soothing, earthy colors to create a tranquil haven promising a peaceful interlude from the exhilaration of Yosemite’s great outdoors. Elegant furnishings and soft textures echo the natural beauty of the Sierras, while handcrafted details and understated patterns lend a distinguished nod to the movement’s exquisite design philosophy.

Each lodge room’s headboards, nightstands, desks, luggage bench, and acoustical TV wall panels have received custom upgrades designed by Allen & Philip Partners and built by Samuel Lawrence Hospitality. These new case good furnishings are complimented by Kellex Seating desk chairs, ottomans and sleeper sofas, as well as new lounge chairs by Kovet Hospitality and dining chairs by Sandler Seating.

Tenaya at Yosemite’s lobby and concierge area has also been fully remodeled to seamlessly bridge the guestroom’s new design elements throughout the property.

In addition to the hotel’s redesign, Tenaya at Yosemite has also unveiled new amenities – including a new pickleball court played with grass rules, a new bocce ball court at the Explorer Clubhouse, a new 18-foot rock-climbing wall with Sierra Nevada Mountain views, and a new dedicated canine play area to expand their dog-friendly services.

Among the on-site additions, Tenaya at Yosemite has begun running new shuttles into Yosemite National Park. Tenaya Shuttles takes guests directly into the heart of the park for convenient access to Yosemite’s iconic sights and hikes. Tenaya Shuttles are available to all overnight guests for $39 per seat, with children two and under riding for free, departing from Tenaya’s Port-Cochere at 7 a.m. and returns from Lot 7 at 3 p.m.

“The experience at Tenaya at Yosemite offers an escape from the ordinary and it was important that we carry that overall experience through to our room design and services,” said General Manager, Brett Archer. “We have taken our guests needs into account through the redesign and expanded our on-site offerings with the overall goal of providing seamless service and simplifying their stay. We hope that, through these changes, they can further enjoy the outdoor exploration in our backyard knowing they have a tranquil space to come back to.”

Owned and operated by Delaware North Parks & Resorts, the AAA Four Diamond rated Tenaya at Yosemite is the perfect year-round gateway to a Yosemite National Park vacation. The resort offers three unique guest accommodations nestled along the Sierra pines, including the Tenaya Lodge, The Cottages, and the Explorer Cabins.

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Tenaya at Yosemite is home to an array of signature restaurants serving locally sourced, sustainable ingredients and craft beverages. For an all-day adventure, Tenaya arranges immersive guided outings into the park with Yosemite 360° Tours, along with an abundance of seasonal activities located on property. For rejuvenation after national park excursions, Tenaya offers full-service treatments at Ascent Spa, and indoor and outdoor pools with cabanas for private service. Tenaya is located just two miles from Yosemite’s south gate entrance and 62 miles from Fresno-Yosemite International Airport.

To learn more about Tenaya at Yosemite or to book, please visit, www.VisitTenaya.com.

About Delaware North Parks and Resorts
Delaware North Parks and Resorts operates lodging, food, beverage and retail services, recreational activities, and educational programming at destinations in North America, Australia and New Zealand. This includes lodging in and near many iconic national and state parks, including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Shenandoah, Sequoia & Kings Canyon and Olympic National Parks and Niagara Falls State Park, as well as at cultural attractions such as Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

Delaware North’s newly enhanced Explore Better content and travel planning platform provides a valuable resource for travelers who are considering a visit to a national park and other outdoor destinations. To learn more about Delaware North’s hospitality management expertise, visit https://www.delawarenorth.com/divisions/parks.

About Delaware North
Delaware North is a global leader in the hospitality and entertainment industry. The company annually serves more than a half-billion guests across four continents, including at high-profile sports venues, airports, national and state parks, restaurants, resorts, hotels and casinos. Building on more than a century of enduring partnerships and a commitment to local communities and sustainability, Delaware North’s vision is to delight guests by creating the world’s best experiences today while reimagining tomorrow. Learn more at www.DelawareNorth.com and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

SOURCE Delaware North Parks & Resorts

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

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