Introducing the Devil Comet
A celestial visitor, known as Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks or the ‘Devil Comet‘, is currently traversing our solar system, captivating stargazers with its vivid green hue and remarkable appearance. This comet, with an orbit spanning approximately 71 years, is currently at its most visible point, drawing interest from numerous scientific publications.
Img Credit: – Hindustan Times
A Comet with a Devilish Look
The Devil Comet has earned its peculiar moniker due to its striking asymmetrical shape, resembling a pair of demonic horns. This unique appearance is the result of recent outbursts, including one in 2023, marking its first explosion in nearly 70 years.
Cosmic Theatrics
Despite its distant nature, being about 21 light-minutes away from Earth, the comet has already treated skywatchers to stunning visual displays. The Virtual Telescope Project has captured and released several images of the comet, showcasing its celestial beauty.
Witnessing the Cosmic Spectacle
Astronomer Gianluca Masi, the creator of the Virtual Telescope Project, is gearing up to offer a live stream of Comet 12P’s flyby. The broadcast is scheduled to commence at midnight (IST) on March 13, providing an opportunity for viewers to witness the comet’s passage alongside our neighboring spiral galaxy, Andromeda, in real-time.
A Harmless Visitor
While the Devil Comet’s highly inclined orbit ensures it will never intersect with Earth’s path, its cosmic journey continues to enthrall stargazers worldwide with its celestial theatrics. Despite its devilish appearance, this celestial visitor poses no threat to our planet.
A Rare Celestial Event
The comet’s last visit to the inner Solar System was in 1954, and its current journey promises to captivate skywatchers with its celestial displays. As it continues its cosmic trek, the Devil Comet is poised to mesmerize stargazers worldwide with its celestial spectacle, offering a rare and awe-inspiring celestial event.
