Vienna, Austria – A rarely-seen comet known for its colorful flare-ups is making its presence known once again in the night skies. Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, with a history of vibrant outbursts, is now visible from Earth. What makes this sighting even more unique is that the comet’s appearance coincides with next month’s total solar eclipse, offering the opportunity for astronomers and stargazers to witness this celestial event in conjunction.
Comets, described by NASA as frozen remnants from the early days of the solar system, are composed of dust, rock, and ice. These cosmic bodies, some spanning tens of miles wide with tails extending millions of miles, become brighter and more visible as they approach the sun. The comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, orbiting the sun every 71 years, will reach its closest point, perihelion, on April 21.
This particular comet has a reputation for unpredictable outbursts, with recent flares occurring on several occasions in the past months. These outbursts have been known to cause the comet to emit a green and red glow, accompanied by a distinctive blue tail. Such behavior has earned the comet the moniker “devil comet” due to its horseshoe-shaped appearance resembling horns.
Star-gazers are encouraged to train their telescopes or binoculars towards the constellation Pisces during the early evening to catch a glimpse of 12P/Pons-Brooks. Astronomers predict that the comet will soon be visible to the naked eye, promising a captivating sight for those with an interest in celestial events.
Originally observed by French astronomer Jean-Louis Pons in 1812, Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks has had a storied history, including its rediscovery by American astronomer William Brooks in 1883. The comet’s return to visibility offers a rare opportunity for astronomers and enthusiasts to witness a phenomenon that has fascinated sky-watchers for centuries.