The “devil comet,” also known as the 12P/Pons-Brooks or “Mother of Dragons comet,” will be making a rare appearance on Sunday, becoming visible as it approaches the sun. This celestial phenomenon hasn’t been observed since the 1950s, making it a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle for sky gazers.
The comet, which is actually a frozen green ball of ice, dust, and rocks, measures regarding 10.5 miles wide and will be approximately 144 million miles away from the sun. The event, known as perihelion, marks the closest point in the comet’s orbit to the sun.
🔭 How to View the Devil Comet
Currently, the devil comet can only be seen from the Northern Hemisphere. While there is a slim chance of spotting it with the naked eye as it gets closer to the sun, NASA recommends using a set of binoculars or a small telescope for a better view.
If you’re interested in catching a glimpse of the comet, Space.com suggests looking for a circular, wispy patch of light with a slightly visible gas tail pointing up and to the left of the comet’s bright head. Sky gazers should wait until following sunset, then gaze west beneath the moon and to the right of Jupiter for the best chance of seeing the comet. However, keep in mind that waiting until an hour following sunset may make it difficult to view as the comet dips below the horizon.
On June 2, the comet will make its closest approach to Earth, but by that time, it will only be visible in the Southern Hemisphere.
☄️ The Last Observation of the Comet
Sightings of the devil comet are incredibly rare because it completes its orbit around the sun only once every 71 years. The last time this comet was observed was between 1953 and 1954, according to the American Astronomical Society.
During this rare celestial event, the comet exhibits cryovolcanic or cold volcanic activity. This type of eruption is not commonly seen in comets, which makes the devil comet particularly unique. In July 2023, a major eruption within the comet caused it to emit an asymmetrical horn-like appearance, captivating both professional astronomers and amateurs alike. The horns, composed of gas, ice, and periodic explosions, caused the comet to appear 100 times brighter than before.
Kareta, a postdoctoral researcher at Lowell Observatory in Arizona, stated, “There aren’t that many comets that have outbursts, these sudden increases in brightness, that are so strong, and even fewer that have them a couple of times during one orbit.” However, as the comet has moved through the solar system and lost a piece of ice, the devil horns have disappeared, giving it a more typical appearance.
👿 The Future of Comets and Celestial Phenomena
The appearance of the devil comet has sparked immense interest and fascination among sky gazers and scientists alike. This rare event, coupled with technological advancements in observations and data collection, paves the way for future discoveries and research in the field of astronomy.
As we continue to explore the vastness of space, it is likely that more comets and celestial phenomena will capture our attention. These events not only provide us with a glimpse into the vastness and wonders of the universe but also offer valuable insights into the formation and evolution of celestial bodies.
Additionally, the ability to observe and study comets like the devil comet opens up new possibilities for understanding the composition and behavior of comets, shedding light on their potential role in the origins of life on Earth and even other planets.
With technological advancements in telescopes, space probes, and imaging techniques, we can expect to gain a better understanding of comets and other celestial bodies in the future. This increased knowledge will not only deepen our understanding of the cosmos but also contribute to advancements in space exploration and potential future missions.
In conclusion, the appearance of the devil comet marks a significant and rare celestial event. As we continue to explore the depths of the universe, the study of comets and other celestial phenomena will undoubtedly yield exciting discoveries and propel us further in our quest to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos.