One of the brightest comets in 20 years, Comet 2024 G3 (ATLAS) returns for a close encounter with the sun — but will we be able to see it?

G3 is set to dazzle Southern Hemisphere skywatchers in mid-January. Here’s everything you need to know about the 'New Year comet'.

Comet G3 ATLAS is set to shine at its brightest this week, potentially outshining Venus and Jupiter, offering a rare and fleeting glimpse of one of the solar system's most extraordinary phenomena.

In the wake of comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan–ATLAS) in October, comet G3 is due to reach perihelion — its closest to the sun — on Jan. 13, 2025. That day, this icy visitor to the inner solar system will get to within just 8.3 million miles (13.5 million kilometers) from the sun.

Whether you're an experienced astronomer or simply enjoy gazing at the night sky, this January offers a rare opportunity to witness a dazzling array of planets.