The “Devil Comet” is approaching! It is susceptible to flare-ups, which give it a “horned” shape and the nickname “Devil Comet.”
12/P is currently in the constellation Pisces and near Andromeda. It will move over to Aries in late March, and pass on to Taurus just after mid-April. Look low in the horizon to the northwest just after sunset. It isn’t bright enough to be visible to the naked eye, but you might try to locate it using binoculars.
On April 8, 2024, it might be visible during the total eclipse. Take a quick look in the vicinity of Jupiter, which should also be visible during the eclipse. Don’t look too long. You don’t want to miss the totality of the eclipse, which will last for, at best, only 3+ minutes (if you’re in the right place).
Pons-Brooks will be at its brightest (Magnitude 3) on April 21, 2024 as it passes close to the Sun. Unfortunately, it will be very low in the horizon and will then disappear from our view in the Northern Hemisphere as it moves away from the Sun.
To track the comet, refer to the resources below, check out Stellarium Web, or find your favorite Astronomy App.
A Few Resources
- Joe Hernandez. “The ‘devil comet’ is visible in the night sky, and is sticking around for the eclipse.” NPR. March 17, 2024.
- Joe Rao. “Here’s how to see ‘horned’ comet 12P/Pons-Brooks in the night sky this month (video).” space.com. March 8, 2024.
- Alison Klesman. “The ‘Devil Comet’ is headed our way — and that’s OK.” Astronomy. March 18, 2024.
- Alison Klesman. “The ‘devil comet’ will be visible during the 2024 total solar eclipse.” Astronomy. Updated March 8, 2024.
- “How To Spot Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks in Tonight’s Sky (Includes Map and Free Tracker).” Star Walk. March 16, 2024.
- Bob King. “If you like chasing comets, here’s a guide to this year’s best and brightest.” Sky & Telescope. January 31, 2024.
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