Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Muskan Arora
Skywatchers anticipate a captivating celestial event as the "devil comet," officially designated as 12P/Pons-Brooks, approaches Earth, with potential visibility during the upcoming total solar eclipse in April.
Image: Comet Chasers/Richard Miles
Measuring 10.5 miles (17 kilometers) wide, the comet follows a highly elliptical orbit around the sun, completing its journey every 71 years.
Identified as an ice volcano or cryovolcanic comet, the 'devil comet' periodically erupts due to solar radiation triggering ruptures in its icy shell, causing cryomagma—a mixture of gas and ice—to spew into space.
Eruptions lead to an intensification of the comet's coma, the cloud of gas and dust surrounding its core, resulting in a brighter appearance visible for several days.
Last year witnessed the first eruption of the 'devil comet' in 69 years, with subsequent regular eruptions. Initially, asymmetry in its coma earned it the moniker "demonic," resembling horns.
Image: Eliot Herman
Recent eruptions have not exhibited the distinctive asymmetry observed earlier, with the comet displaying a more symmetrical appearance.
Analysis of recent images reveals a greenish glow emitted by the comet, attributed to high concentrations of dicarbon in its coma and tail.
The 'devil comet' is expected to be visible on April 8, 2024, coinciding with the total solar eclipse. Skywatchers worldwide are advised to use protective eyewear, such as licensed eclipse glasses, during partial phases to prevent eye damage.
Directly viewing the Sun during the eclipse's totality without proper eye protection can cause irreversible harm to the eyes, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety measures while enjoying the celestial spectacle.