A rare visitor from the outer reaches of our solar system, the aptly nicknamed “Devil’s Comet” – 12P/Pons-Brooks – is putting on a show for skywatchers in the coming weeks. This icy wanderer, affectionately known as the “devil’s comet” due to its distinctive horned appearance, is set to reach its closest approach to the sun on April 21, 2024. With a nucleus spanning an impressive 30 kilometers in diameter, 12P/Pons-Brooks dwarfs the mighty Mount Everest, standing at a mere 8,848 meters in comparison.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter with the “Devil’s Comet”
Classified as a Halley-type comet, 12P/Pons-Brooks follows a lengthy orbital period of 71.3 years. This means for most skywatchers, this will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness this cosmic wonder. The comet is expected to reach its closest point to the sun on April 21st, 2024, and with that approach comes an increase in brightness.
As the comet ventures closer to the sun’s warmth, it undergoes a fascinating transformation. Cryovolcanic eruptions, triggered by the buildup of pressure within its icy core, cause the comet to spew forth a dazzling display of dust, gas, and ice. These eruptions, responsible for the comet’s devilish horns, can also lead to dramatic increases in brightness, as witnessed last year when comet 12P/Pons-Brooks intensified by a hundredfold.
While the comet has already been spotted in the night sky, notably in Spain, astronomers predict that it will continue to brighten in the coming weeks. Astrophotographer Andrew McCarthy captured stunning images of the comet’s nucleus, revealing its mesmerizing green hue. This enchanting color, as explained by McCarthy, is attributed to “concentrations of dicarbon illuminated by the sun.”
Unveiling the Secrets of the “Devil’s Comet”
12P/Pons-Brooks is categorized as cryovolcanic, spewing dust, gases, and ice when heated by the sun. One such eruption last year caused a dramatic increase in its brightness and the formation of a horn-shaped haze, earning it the ominous nickname “Devil’s Comet.”
Spotting the Elusive Comet: Tips for Skywatchers
Expert predictions suggest that 12P/Pons-Brooks might even become visible to the naked eye under dark skies. However, for optimal viewing, astronomers recommend using binoculars or a small telescope. Dr. Paul Strøm, an astrophysicist at the University of Warwick, offers guidance on locating the comet: “The comet is moving from the constellation of Andromeda towards Pisces. As it does so, it will pass in front of bright stars, making it easier to spot on certain dates. In particular, on March 31, 12P/Pons-Brooks will be just 0.5 degrees from the bright star called Hamal.”
Nicolas Biver, President of the Comet Commission of the Société Astronomique de France (SAF) and astrophysicist at Paris Observatory, suggests that the comet will be visible “during the week of March 11 to 17” and again at the end of March until the end of April, although he cautions that the latter period is “not yet certain.” Biver advises stargazers to direct their gaze to the north-west, approximately 8 degrees below the Andromeda galaxy, for the best chance of spotting the comet.
Finding the perfect viewing location is key. Look for a place with minimal light pollution, ideally in the northern hemisphere. The best time to look is during twilight in the west-north-west direction. Additionally, mobile applications that map the constellations can be helpful tools for navigating the night sky.
A Celestial Encounter Not to Be Missed
As comet 12P/Pons-Brooks embarks on its 71.3-year journey through the inner solar system, it serves as a reminder of the untapped potential that lies within these cosmic wanderers. Comets and asteroids, often regarded as the unused building blocks of our solar system, hold the key to understanding the conditions under which our cosmic neighborhood came to be.
So, as the “devil’s comet” graces our skies once more, take a moment to reflect on the rarity and beauty of this celestial event. With its next appearance not set to occur until 2095.