In Vienna, on the 16th of July, 2019, a crowd gathered in anticipation of the partial lunar eclipse. Their eyes were also set on a celestial event that astronomers had promised: the visibility of comet 12P/Pons-Brooks with the naked eye. This moment was captured in a photograph by Georg Hochmuth, courtesy of AFP via Getty Images.
A comet known for its vibrant outbursts, 12P/Pons-Brooks, is making its appearance from Earth once more. This event is especially noteworthy as it aligns with the upcoming total solar eclipse next month, offering a unique opportunity to observe the comet during this celestial phenomenon.
Comets, as described by NASA, are icy bodies that emit gas and dust, forming a glowing head and often a tail that extends millions of miles into space. These ancient objects, composed of dust, rock, and ice, originate from the early days of the solar system. As they approach the sun, they heat up and become brighter, showcasing their majestic tails.
The journey of comet 12P/Pons-Brooks around the sun takes 71 years, with its next closest approach to the sun, or perihelion, scheduled for April 21. This comet is particularly known for its sudden and dramatic increases in brightness.
Recent observations have recorded several such outbursts from 12P/Pons-Brooks, with notable increases in brightness on October 5, November 1 and 14, December 14, and January 18. These events can cause the comet to glow in hues of green and red, and to develop a striking long blue tail.
Due to its unpredictable outbursts and the distinctive horseshoe shape these can create, resembling horns, 12P/Pons-Brooks has earned the nickname “the devil comet.” Currently, those keen on astronomy may have the chance to spot this comet by using telescopes or binoculars aimed towards the constellation Pisces in the early evening hours. Soon, it’s expected to become visible to the naked eye as well.
The discovery of this comet dates back to 1812 by the French astronomer Jean-Louis Pons. It was later “rediscovered” in 1883 by the American astronomer William Brooks, an event that brought it back into the spotlight of the astronomical community, as reported by Sky & Telescope.