Get ready for a celestial spectacle as the “devil comet” 12P/Pons-Brooks is set to reach its closest point to the sun. Known to be one of the brightest periodic comets, it earned its nickname in 2023 after an outburst caused a remarkable display. This week, skywatchers in North America and mid-northern latitudes will have the opportunity to observe this rare visitor, just after sunset. While the total solar eclipse may have passed, the appearance of the “devil comet” provides another exciting event for astronomy enthusiasts.
Rare Visitor: Devil Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks
The “devil comet” 12P/Pons-Brooks is making its way closer to the sun, sparking anticipation among stargazers. This periodic comet, which orbits approximately every 71 years, is gaining brightness as it races towards the sun. On April 21, it will be at its closest point to the sun, and there is a possibility that it may even be visible to the naked eye. As the comet passes by, it presents a unique opportunity for observers to witness its captivating display in the night sky.
In addition to the “devil comet”, other celestial events are also worth noting this week. The Lyrid meteor showers are back, providing a dazzling show of shooting stars. Furthermore, the Lunar X and Lunar V phenomena will grace the night sky, offering stargazing highlights. Australian stargazers can also look forward to the visibility of the “Devil Comet”, before it disappears from their skies. As this rare celestial event unfolds, astronomers and skywatchers alike are eagerly awaiting the brightest moment of the “devil comet”.
- Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, also known as the “Devil Comet”, is reaching its closest point to the sun
- Named the “devil comet” due to an outburst causing a remarkable display in 2023
- Observers in North America and mid-northern latitudes have the opportunity to witness the rare visitor just after sunset
- The comet may be visible to the naked eye and is anticipated to be at its brightest on April 21
- The Lyrid meteor showers and Lunar X and V phenomena are additional highlights in the night sky
- Australian stargazers will be able to see the “devil comet” before it disappears from their skies
Might interest you:
“Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks is known for its impressive brightness and the unique display it presented in 2023. Observing its closest point to the sun and the possibility of it being visible to the naked eye on April 21 is truly an exciting event for astronomy enthusiasts.” – Astronomer John M. Curtis
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