Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks showing a horned/horseshoe shape during an outburst last summer.
The headlines are wild and the hype is big, but is there any truth to stories about a “Devil Comet” heading towards Earth? Yes and no—but either way there’s absolutely nothing to worry about.
The so-called “Devil Comet” is better known as 12P/Pons-Brooks, a short-period comet that enter’s the inner solar system every 71 years or so. It was discovered in 1812 and is currently over 273 million miles (440 million kilometers) from Earth in the constellation Hercules, according to SkyLive, but too dim to see without a telescope.
However, it’s destined to next loop around the sun in 2024, getting within Earth’s orbit, but it presents no danger. It’s predicted to reach its brightest next April through June, when it may even be visible to the naked eye at magnitude +4.7.
12P/Pons-Brooks—which is about the same size as Halley’s comet—will be closest to the sun next April 21 and making its closest approach to Earth on June 2. However, it won’t cross Earth’s orbital path around the sun, so it can be no danger.
Horned Shape
12P/Pons-Brooks has been nicknamed the “Devil Comet” because of its unusual horned shape during an outburst in July.
During the outburst its central core, its nucleus, unexpectedly brightened and the halo of material around it expanded, possibly blocking some of it from view.
‘Eclipse Comet’
The timing of 12P/Pons-Brooks’ latest visit to the inner solar system means it might just be visible during the next total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, which will be visible from parts of Mexico, the U.S. and Canada.
That creates a unique opportunity for skywatchers to potentially view the comet during totality, as I previously reported, possibly with the naked eye. However, it may be that binoculars will be needed to find it.
12P/Pons-Brook comes in the wake of comet 2022 E3 (ZTF)—the so-called “green comet”—and 2020’s comet NEOWISE, but looks set to put on an extra special display.
I’m an expert on eclipses—the editor of WhenIsTheNextEclipse.com and author of The Complete Guide To The Great North American Eclipse of April 8, 2024. For the very latest on the “ring of fire” solar eclipse—including travel and lodging options—check my main feed for new articles each day.
Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.
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Jessica Irvine is a tech enthusiast specializing in gadgets. From smart home devices to cutting-edge electronics, Jessica explores the world of consumer tech, offering readers comprehensive reviews, hands-on experiences, and expert insights into the coolest and most innovative gadgets on the market.
