Stargazing enthusiasts have a celestial treat awaiting them in 2024, with two notable comets gracing the night sky. For those captivated by comets, asteroids, and meteor showers, the upcoming year promises remarkable skygazing opportunities.
In 2024
Among the celestial wonders to anticipate, two comets, Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks and Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, stand out as potential highlights, potentially visible even without the aid of telescopes.
Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, also known intriguingly as the “Devil Comet,” is a familiar celestial visitor that orbits the sun every 71 years. This comet, expected to make its appearance in the spring months of March and April, will draw particularly close to the sun during this period. Notably, its celestial rendezvous coincides with a total solar eclipse that will be observable across more than a dozen American states. The anticipation of both the comet’s appearance and the solar eclipse is generating significant excitement among skywatchers.
The moniker “Devil Comet” is not merely whimsical; this icy space-rock has gained attention due to its peculiar behavior. The comet has experienced multiple explosions, resulting in the formation of distinctive horns, contributing to its intriguing nickname. Having exploded at least four times already, Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks is a celestial spectacle, with a size surpassing that of Mount Everest. Anticipated to shine brightly towards the end of March, it might even be visible to the naked eye, although using binoculars is recommended for a safer and enhanced viewing experience.
Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, on the other hand, is a newcomer to the celestial stage, having been discovered in 2023. This cosmic traveler is expected to approach Earth closely during the fall season of September and October. The comet’s brightness adds to its allure, with the possibility of it being visible without the aid of telescopes. However, the brightness of Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS is expected to fluctuate, necessitating vigilant observation to determine the optimal time for observation.
As the night sky promises these celestial spectacles, enthusiasts are encouraged to mark their calendars for the unique opportunities presented by these two comets in the celestial theater of 2024. Whether seasoned stargazers or newcomers to the wonders of the night sky, all are invited to witness the captivating dance of celestial bodies in the vast expanse above.
