Los Angeles, California – Sky gazers in the Northern Hemisphere are getting ready for a rare celestial event as the “devil comet,” officially known as the 12P/Pons-Brooks or “Mother of Dragons comet,” approaches the sun on Sunday. This phenomenon, last observed in the 1950s, is making its closest approach to the big star, around 144 million miles away.
Pons-Brooks, a frozen green ball of ice, dust, and rocks measuring 10.5 miles wide, has captured the attention of astronomers and stargazers alike. This unique comet is known for its cryovolcanic or cold volcanic nature, which results in frequent illuminating eruptions that bring a spectacular display to the night sky.
Despite the slim chance of viewing the comet with the naked eye, experts suggest using binoculars or a small telescope for a better experience. Space.com recommends looking for a circular, wispy patch of light with a gas tail pointing up and to the left of the comet’s bright head. For optimal viewing, NASA advises waiting until sunset and looking West beneath the moon to catch a glimpse of Pons-Brooks.
The devil comet’s previous orbital passage occurred between 1953 and 1954, making sightings of this celestial event quite rare, constituting a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle. Theodore Kareta, a postdoctoral researcher at Lowell Observatory in Arizona, highlighted the significance of this event, emphasizing the comet’s periodic eruptions that have increased its brightness exponentially.
In July 2023, the comet earned its “devil comet” moniker due to a major eruption that resulted in an asymmetrical horn-like appearance. The unique horns, composed of gas, ice, and periodic explosions, made Pons-Brooks approximately 100 times brighter, captivating sky watchers around the world. Despite losing its devil horns as it traversed the solar system, the comet continues to intrigue astronomers and space enthusiasts.
As Pons-Brooks completes its current orbit, astronomers predict the next opportunity to witness this celestial wonder will be in the summer of 2095. The rarity and captivating nature of the devil comet serve as a reminder of the wonders of our universe and the ongoing exploration of space.