When and how to see the so-called 'Devil's Comet'

This 2024 is being a very interesting year in terms of astronomical phenomena. In addition to being able to see with the naked eye the explosion of a nova from a star system, located 3,000 light years from Earth, something unique considering that it only occurs once every 80 years, it will also be possible to see the so-called 'comet of the Devil'.

This is comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, only visible once every 71 years, so it will not cross our sky again until 2095. This was discovered in 1812 by the French astronomer Jean-Louis Pons, however, it was rediscovered in 1883 by the British William Brooks. One of its main peculiarities and the reason why it has been given this dark name is because of its appearance.

In the latest images captured, you can see two elongated flashes of light, which look like two horns. In 2023, it experiences several explosions – June and October – expelling gas and dust and increasing its brightness. However, despite the fact that this behavior is irregular and that it is approaching Earth, this comet does not pose any danger to our planet. It is also estimated to be large in size, it is said to be three times larger than Mount Everest.

When will it be possible to see the 'devil's comet'

This comet is visible during the months of March and April in the northern hemisphere, although its prehelion – its closest point to the sun – will be on April 21, from then on it will be easier to see it in the southern hemisphere. It is estimated that the best day to see it will be April 8, as it will coincide with the total solar eclipse, as explained by NASA on its Astronomy Picture of the Day website. Its closest point to Earth will be recorded on June 9.

To observe it, it is recommended to move away from the light pollution of cities and choose a dark and clear place. From March 8 to 15, the comet passes through the Andromeda constellation. From the 16th to the 22nd through the constellation of Pisces and in Aries starting on March 30, reaching a magnitude of 5.19, which may make it visible to the naked eye in some locations. To be able to see it better, you can also use telescopes or binoculars.