NEW YORK, BRONX (ORDO News) — The giant cryovolcanic comet 12P/Pons Brooks, nicknamed “Devil’s” because of its amazing horns, has become the object of interest for astronomers following recent events in its coma.
Measuring over 10 miles in size, this massive comet has attracted attention for its unusual characteristics. Unlike previous eruptions, this time the dark streaks that gave the comet its horn-like appearance have disappeared.
Scientists observed a surprising expansion of the coma without the characteristic horns, which raised many questions and hypotheses.
The latest eruption on November 14 was the strongest yet, making the comet 100 times brighter, according to Nick James of the British Astronomical Association. This time, however, the horns were gone and the coma seemed perfectly round.
The origin of the horns was revealed by BAA astronomer Richard Miles, arguing that the phenomenon was due to an irregularity within the 12P core. He described how the notch in the core prevents gas from escaping during eruptions, creating horn-like features.
The recent disappearance of the horns remains a mystery, although speculation points to possible damage to the blocking excavation due to frequent eruptions.
On April 24, 2024, the comet will approach its perihelion, reaching its closest point to the Sun. After this event, it is expected to fly around the star and reach the outer reaches of the Solar System, where it will remain for most of its orbit.
The comet’s reappearance within the solar system is not expected until 2094, with a particularly spectacular moment on June 2, 2025, when Comet 12P can be seen with the naked eye during its closest approach to Earth.
Recent observations by amateur astronomer Eliot Herman have revealed intriguing features of Comet 12P, including a unique green hue caused by the presence of dicarbon and an unusual dark spot within a bright coma.
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News agencies contributed to this report, edited and published by ORDO News editors.
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