A rare celestial event is captivating stargazers worldwide, as the 12P/Pons-Brooks comet, also dubbed the ‘Devil Comet’ due to its unique phenomena, is currently visible in the night sky. Discovered by Jean-Louis Pons and William Robert Brooks, the comet orbits close to Earth every 71 years and is presently offering a spectacular show that can be observed with binoculars or small telescopes, with the possibility of becoming visible to the naked eye in the upcoming weeks.

This comet, notable for its explosive eruptions and distinctive green glow caused by high levels of dicarbon in its tail and coma, underwent a transformation late in 2023. These eruptions resulted in the temporary formation of gaseous ‘horns’, giving it its demonic nickname. However, its most striking feature now is the eerie green hue it emits, a spectacle that has intrigued astronomers and skywatchers alike.

The celestial body, described by Dr. Megan Argo of the University of Central Lancashire as a “giant dirty snowball” made of dust, rock, and ice, is best observed in dark sky areas with minimal light pollution. Its approach towards the Sun triggers the melting of ice into gas, crafting a magnificent tail that extends for millions of miles into space. Currently situated near the Andromeda galaxy, the comet is slowly moving across the sky, offering ample opportunity for observation.

Amateur astronomer Stuart Atkinson suggests utilizing binoculars or a telescope for an enhanced viewing experience and recommends a DSLR camera mounted on a tripod for those interested in capturing its beauty, noting the difficulty of photographing it with a phone camera due to its size and faintness.

The comet’s next close approach to Earth is slated for June 2, providing an exceptional chance for enthusiasts to witness this cosmic wonder before it vanishes once again. As the comet progresses on its path, it is expected to gradually brighten, making the upcoming weeks an ideal time for observation.