As the month of April progresses, skywatchers will have the opportunity to witness a rare celestial event as Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks makes its closest approach to the sun on April 21. Known as the ‘Devil Comet’ for its impressive night sky display and sudden flare-ups in brightness, this cosmic phenomenon is set to captivate viewers around the world.
Despite its ominous moniker, the comet’s survival chances during perihelion are looking promising as it will pass by at a safe distance of about 72.6 million miles from the sun. However, Northern Hemisphere skywatchers may need to bid farewell to the comet after the solar flyby, as it is expected to fade rapidly once it moves away from the sun.
For those eager to catch a glimpse of the comet before it disappears into the sunset glow, there is still time to see it in the northern sky. Although it is expected to drop in brightness by the end of May and June, southern hemisphere skywatchers can now start looking out for the comet in the southern sky.
After its current journey through the solar system, Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks will not return to our skies until 2095. Unlike other comets that face intense heat and possible shattering when closer to the sun than Mercury, this particular comet manages to avoid such a scenario, allowing it to continue its cosmic voyage relatively unscathed.
So be sure to grab your binoculars and head outside to catch a glimpse of this extraordinary cosmic event before it disappears from view.
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