Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS displays rare anti-tail illusion after closest approach to Earth in 80,000 years

Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, visible to the naked eye, has recently shown a rare optical phenomenon called an "anti-tail." This faint streak appears to point in the opposite direction of its main tail due to Earth's position relative to the comet. The comet reached its closest point to Earth on October 12, at about 43.9 million miles away. It has been brightening as it approaches, captivating observers worldwide. Astrophotographer Michael Jäger captured images of the comet, revealing the anti-tail effect. This illusion occurs when Earth passes through the comet's orbital plane, illuminating dust left behind by the comet.