Rare “Devil Comet” to Grace Earth’s Skies Next Spring
Get ready for a celestial spectacle next spring as the “devil comet” makes its way towards Earth. Comet 12/P Pons-Brooks, as it has been nicknamed, is set to offer a breathtaking display as it nears a closer orbit to our planet. Despite its ominous moniker, there is no cause for concern as this cosmic phenomenon promises to be a sight to behold.
Comet 12/P Pons-Brooks, with its core of dust and gas, hurtles through space while emitting ice-clouds that bear an uncanny resemblance to horns. Some even compare the comet’s appearance to that of the famous Millennium Falcon from the beloved Star Wars franchise. Those fascinated by these celestial wonders are advised to mark their calendars, as next spring offers a rare opportunity to witness this spectacle before it disappears for another 71 years.
Amateur astronomer and retired University of Arizona professor, Eliot Herman, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming event. “By observing this more intensely, we might resolve this question, and there is a community of observers who are studying this,” he said. Herman also mentioned the NASA SOHO space probe, which captures images of comets close to the sun, providing valuable data for researchers. However, seeing a comet with the naked eye near the sun is typically impossible, unless during an eclipse – which fortuitously aligns with the arrival of Comet 12/P Pons-Brooks.
Astronomers are eagerly preparing to study the comet’s horns in greater detail as it swings past Earth and prepares to be slung back into the solar system. The comet’s perihelion, the point in its orbit closest to the sun and when it will be at its brightest, is set to occur on April 21, 2024. Closer to the event, on April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will take place. This rare cosmic alignment means that Comet 12/P Pons-Brooks will be near enough to the sun to potentially appear bright and large to Earthlings witnessing the event.
As the comet’s orbit brings it closest to our planet between April 21 and June 2, astronomers and sky-watchers alike anticipate the possibility of finally witnessing this ethereal beauty with the naked eye. So make sure to mark your calendars and prepare for a celestial show like no other next spring when the “devil comet” graces the skies for an unforgettable appearance.