Sky Guide October 2024

“Some may be familiar with the expression that ‘comets are as predictable as cats!" We can have high expectations but more often than not, these are not met. Nonetheless, when we hear the news of an approaching comet our interest in the sky races to a crescendo, not for moment remembering the disappointments of most but the excitement of the few. This October, Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) will emerge from behind the Sun early in the month and possibly light up the western twilight sky ... or not. See details about this event at the bottom of this page.

Don’t forget Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT), or Daylight Savings, starts at 2 am on Sunday 6 October in New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and Norfolk Island. Put your clocks forward one hour. If you rely on a smartphone the adjustment is automatic.’”

Dr Andrew Jacob, curator and astronomer, Sydney Observatory