Rare ‘Devil Comet’ May Appear During Total Solar Eclipse on April 8
Get ready for a celestial spectacle like no other! On April 8, during the total solar eclipse, an extraordinary event might unfold in the skies above us. The infamous “devil comet,” also known as 12P/Pons-Brooks, could make its grand appearance, captivating stargazers worldwide. With its hornless, greenish-tinged head, this city-sized comet is a sight to behold.
Comet 12P, measuring a staggering 10.5 miles in width, follows a highly elliptical orbit around the sun once every 71 years. What makes this comet truly fascinating is its nature as an ice volcano or cryovolcanic comet. Periodically, when solar radiation causes a fissure in its icy shell or nucleus, it erupts in a spectacular display of cryomagma—a mixture of gas and ice—shooting out into space.
As the cryomagma escapes, it forms a cloud of gas and dust around the comet’s core, known as the coma. This phenomenon causes the comet to shine brighter for several days. Last year, after a 69-year hiatus, 12P erupted for the first time, and it has been erupting regularly ever since. During its early eruptions, an intriguing asymmetry developed in the comet’s extended coma, giving it the appearance of horns and earning it the moniker “demonic.” However, more recent eruptions have not displayed these distinctive features.
The devil comet’s coma and tail emit a mesmerizing green light, thanks to high concentrations of dicarbon. Recent images of the comet showcase this ethereal glow, adding to its allure. If the comet breaks out before totality, there is a chance it may be visible to the naked eye. However, it is crucial to exercise caution and wear proper protective eyewear, such as licensed eclipse glasses, when observing a partial eclipse. Looking directly at the Sun without adequate protection can cause irreversible eye damage. The safest time to gaze at the Sun during a total solar eclipse is at totality when the Moon fully obscures the Sun.
As we eagerly await the total solar eclipse on April 8, anticipation builds for the potential sighting of the devil comet. Will it reveal its hornless, greenish-tinged head to the world? Only time will tell. Meanwhile, astronomers and enthusiasts alike are preparing their equipment and making plans to capture this rare cosmic event through their lenses. Let us hope for clear skies and a celestial show that will leave us in awe of the wonders of our universe.
