Astronomers and stargazers in the Southern Hemisphere are eagerly preparing for a night-time spectacle as Comet C/2024 G3 (Atlas) makes its debut in the evening sky, following a dramatic encounter with the Sun.

Aptly coined a 'sun-skirting' comet due to its close solar approach, this celestial body promises to offer an impressive view over the coming days.

Discovered in April 2024, the comet initially appeared as a faint object over 600 million kilometers away from both Earth and the Sun.

Astronomers quickly determined that C/2024 G3 (Atlas) would pass within 14 million kilometers of the Sun on January 13, sparking anticipation of a potential visual spectacle similar to comet C/2006 P1 (McNaught) back in early 2007.

Comets, often described as unpredictable 'cats of the solar system,' present a challenge for astronomers trying to forecast their visibility.

Comet C/2024 G3 (Atlas), believed to have a modestly sized nucleus, had a precarious trajectory that placed it at risk of disintegration from solar forces.

However, its intact survival past the Sun bodes well for observers.

In past interactions, its orbit suggested it had encountered the Sun before, strengthening the likelihood of a repeat performance without disintegration.

The comet has already impressed observers by becoming the third brightest object documented by NASA’s SOHO solar observatory.

Enthusiasts have even captured it on camera during daylight.

Primarily visible to those in the Southern Hemisphere, C/2024 G3 (Atlas) will appear low in the western sky post-sunset.

Unfortunately, Northern Hemisphere viewers may miss out due to the comet’s proximity to the Sun’s glare.

Now following a path away from both Earth and the Sun, the comet’s brilliance is expected to fade rapidly.

Astrophysics experts recommend seizing the opportunity within the next few days to experience the comet's full grandeur.

Viewing conditions will improve as the comet climbs higher in the sky, but its brightness will diminish.

For optimal viewing, observers should seek a location with an unobstructed view of the western horizon slightly to the south of due west.

Utilizing planetarium apps like Stellarium can aid in determining the best times for observation based on precise geographical locations.

Astronomer Jonti Horner from the University of Southern Queensland suggests arriving at your chosen viewing site around sunset.

As the Sun dips below the horizon, gradually reduced brightness will make the comet visible to binoculars, cameras, and eventually the naked eye.

While forecasting the exact visibility of comets remains complex, enthusiasts are advised to take prompt action to view this short-lived but unique astronomical event.