On April 8, heavenly observers can witness a unique cosmic phenomenon as the “Devil’s comet,” officially known as the 12p/Pons-Brooks comet, will align with a total solar eclipse in North America. This rare event presents an opportunity to witness an extraordinary celestial coincidence in the sky. It remains uncertain whether the comet will be visible to the naked eye during the daytime, even at the peak of the eclipse.
The 12p/Pons-Brooks comet, nicknamed “Dirty Snow” by Harvard astronomer Fred Whipple, is currently passing through our cosmic neighborhood. It will reach perihelion (the closest point to the sun) on April 21, when it is expected to shine brightest. The closest approach to Earth will take place on June 2, as the comet heads back out. As the comet nears the Sun, it becomes increasingly active, making it a focal point for astrophotographers.
This comet has a 71.3-year orbit period and belongs to the category of Comet Galley, with orbits ranging from 20 to 200 years around the Sun. Discovered initially by French astronomer Jean-Louis Ponce in 1812, it was sighted again by British-American astronomer William Robert Brooks in 1883. The comet’s core is estimated to be 32 kilometers in diameter.
Sporting the nickname “Devil’s comet” due to its unusual activity since July 20, 2023, the 12p/Pons-Brooks comet has undergone several outbursts, significantly increasing its brightness and forming a shape reminiscent of a “millennium falcon.”
To catch a glimpse of the comet, observers must venture beyond city lights and allow their eyes to adjust to darkness for 20-30 minutes. Currently visible in the northwestern sky in the Pisces constellation during early evening hours, the comet’s brightness is expected to peak as it approaches perihelion.
The complete solar eclipse on April 8 offers a rare opportunity to witness two remarkable cosmic events simultaneously. The degree of darkness during the eclipse will vary based on geography and local conditions, potentially providing an ideal setting for a stunning celestial display. Astrophotographers face an exciting challenge in capturing this event.
At perihelion, the 12p/Pons-Brooks comet will be approximately 0.78 astronomical units from the Sun, with its next rendezvous with the Sun predicted for 2097. This celestial spectacle promises to be an unforgettable sight for astronomers and space enthusiasts worldwide.