'Devil Comet', May Join Solar Eclipse in , Rare Synchronized Celestial Event.
'Devil Comet', May Join Solar Eclipse in , Rare Synchronized Celestial Event.
NBC reports that a "devil comet" may be visible during next month's highly anticipated North American solar eclipse.
So-called "devil comets" are known for occasional explosive outbursts, which give the celestial objects their unique appearance.
Last year, an eruption on Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks left it with two trails of gas and ice, which give the appearance of devil horns.
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The unique comet is currently visible in the early evenings from the Northern Hemisphere on the west-northwest horizon with the aid of binoculars or telescopes.
The comet is expected to brighten throughout the month, until it becomes visible to the naked eye as it reaches its closest point to the sun around mid-April.
NBC reports that the "devil comet" could be visible during the upcoming April 8 total solar eclipse if the comet flares significantly in the coming weeks.
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Those in the eclipse's path of totality, from Texas to Maine, could be treated to a rare synchronized celestial event.
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The comet was first observed by French astronomer Jean-Louis Pons in 1812.
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In 1883, British-American astronomer William Brooks became the second to spot the rare celestial object.
NBC reports that Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks orbit around the sun takes 71 years, making sightings of the comet a truly rare occurrence.
