Astrophotographer Miguel Claro has captured a stunning celestial encounter: Comet C/2023 E1 Atlas passing through the Flying Bat Nebula and the Squid Nebula. This rare alignment has created a breathtaking image that showcases the vastness and beauty of the cosmos.
The Cosmic Trio
- Comet C/2023 E1 Atlas: A periodic comet with an orbital period of 85 years.
- Flying Bat Nebula (Sh2-129): A large, reddish cloud of glowing hydrogen gas.
- Squid Nebula: A smaller, bluish nebula shaped like a squid.
Claro's image, captured using various filters to highlight different elements, showcases the comet's greenish coma against the backdrop of the nebulae. The juxtaposition of these celestial objects creates a truly awe-inspiring scene.
A Lucky Capture
This alignment was a chance occurrence. Claro spent several nights capturing the Flying Bat Nebula, and it was during one of these sessions that he noticed Comet Atlas entering the frame. The timing was perfect, resulting in this extraordinary image.
Would you like to see the image? I can provide a link or describe it in more detail if you're interested.