Will Comet G3 be visible over Arizona in January? What to know

Skywatchers of Arizona might not have to wait long to see the first comet of 2025.

Comet ATLAS C/2024 G3, also known simply as Comet G3, is currently headed toward the sun on its 160,000-year trip through the solar system. Like Comet A3, which was visible over Arizona last fall, it's a long-period comet with a substantial tail.

Starting the second week of January, the comet will reach its closest distance from the sun and – if it survives its journey – could become brighter and more prominent in the predawn skies.

Claude Hayes of the East Valley Astronomy Club told Phoenix New Times that chances are “slim” that Comet G3 will be bright enough to be seen without binoculars or a telescope.

“(Comets) are notoriously difficult to predict. I would also quote David Levy, 'Comets are like cats: They both have tails and do exactly as they please,’” Haynes says. “But even if it does brighten up and become a naked-eye comet, I recommend looking for it since it's always thrilling to see what our universe has to offer.”

Can you see Comet G3 tonight? Yes, but it will take a little luck, a telescope or a pair of binoculars and knowing when and where to look. Here’s everything skywatchers need to know to see Comet G3 over Arizona?

What is Comet G3?

Comet ATLAS C/2024 G3 is a comet that originated from the distant Oort Cloud surrounding our solar system. It was discovered by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System, or ATLAS, in April 2024.

Can I see Comet G3 now?

Yes, but not easily. Comet ATLAS C/2024 G3 is only viewable just above the horizon during the early morning hours until Jan. 13 as it approaches the sun. If it survives its close encounter, it will begin to grow brighter and appear higher in the sky.

When can I see Comet G3?

Currently, C/2024 G3 is an early morning comet that’s only visible around 90 minutes before sunrise.

Where do I look to see Comet G3?

It’s located in the southern skies approximately two or three degrees above the horizon. .

Do I need binoculars to see Comet A3?

Yes. Haynes says the comet is only visible using a binoculars or a telescope. "Binoculars are your friend in this case, so use them," he says.

Is there an app to find Comet G3?

Yes. You can use free apps like SkyGuide to find Comet C/2023 A3. Haynes suggests using SkySafari, which requires a subscription.

Will Comet G3 survive its close encounter with the sun?

Who knows? Astronomers originally thought C/2024 G3 was a new comet, which means it was unlikely to survive the heat and solar radiation. In late 2024, it was determined that the comet was more than 350,000 years old, which means it traveled through our solar system once before and survived coming close to the sun before.

Will Comet G3 hit Earth?

No. Astronomers worldwide have been studying the comet and its orbit and trajectory for months now and say there’s little chance it will impact Earth.