The “Devil Comet,” formally known as comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, makes a close approach to the Sun approximately every 71 years and can be well observed from Earth. The comet is expected to be visible to the eye soon, reaching a brightness of 4 magnitudes (quite bright). Here’s where and when it can be seen…
The Devil Comet will be visible to the eye very soon!
This giant icy body, approximately 30 kilometers in diameter, has an impressive tail formed by the heating effect of the Sun. The comet has a white dust tail and a greenish ion or plasma tail.
Currently observable through a telescope, the “Devil Comet” gets its nickname from its tails resembling “the horns of a devil.” It was discovered and described by astronomers Jean-Louis Pons and William Robert Brooks in 1812 and 1883, respectively.
Visible to the eye up to a brightness of 6 magnitudes, a lower magnitude indicates a brighter star. This brightness level is equivalent to the brightness of dim stars. In Turkey, sky watchers will be able to observe the comet in early April, especially during evening hours.
On April 10th, the comet will be visible just below the crescent moon, and on April 11th, it will be right below Jupiter. It will appear about two fingers in size, moving from below the planet to the left.
Although it’s possible to see the comet with the naked eye, a good pair of binoculars or a telescope will be needed to view details like the tail and coma. This observation opportunity offers an exciting experience for astronomy enthusiasts, presenting a chance to witness this impressive celestial event.
What do you think about this news? Isn’t it exciting? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
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