On October 5, 2023, astronomers noticed that Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks was shining brighter than usual. Interpretation? Two explosions in less than four months After 69 years without exposure to this result from solar radiation.
This caused the comet's nucleus to heat up a lot, increasing its pressure and causing a violent explosion, according to the British Astronomical Association (BAA), which is closely monitoring the comet.
Read also: (When will the “Devil’s Comet” appear, which will pass near the Earth? We will tell you)
In the following days, The comet expanded further and developed its “twisted horns,” according to Spaceweather.com. Hence, he was called the “Satan” comet, not for any reason related to his danger.
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Moreover, this is the size of a small city, estimated at 30 kilometers in diameter.
Comet It is already well known because its orbital period is 71 years. It was officially discovered in July 1812 by French astronomer Jean-Louis Pons.. It was then accidentally rediscovered in 1883 by American astronomer William Brooks, hence its common name, Star Walk explains.
On this occasion, the celestial body will be visible from April 21, 2024. On that date, Pons-Brooks will reach perihelion, Closest point to the Sun, at that time, it will shine at its maximum brightness (magnitude of about 4.5) In the constellation Taurus, it can be seen with the naked eye.
Read also: (The 'Devilish Comet' will pass very close to Earth: Is it dangerous?)
Shortly after reaching perihelion, the comet will disappear from the night sky in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, it will remain visible until the end of the year.
Since this event has an orbital period of 70 years, after its passage in 2024, The next opportunity to observe it will be in 2095. Therefore, this astronomical event represents a unique opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts around the world.
It has not yet been confirmed whether the “Devil's Comet” will be visible from Colombia, as the visibility of comets usually depends on several factors, such as geographical location and weather conditions at the time of sighting.
With information from El Universal (GDA)
