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2024-04-21 12:28:41
Now is the time to try to discover the comet Pons-Brooks, nicknamed the Devil’s Comet, in the night sky. Looking west just after sunset in the sky over the United States (also Mexico and Canada). The comet’s closest approach to the Sun (perihelion) is on April 21, when it is in front of the constellation Taurus. Check this article for the schedule and how to enjoy this astronomical phenomenon.
For those in the Northern Hemisphere, the last 10 days of March will offer the best views, according to Dr. Paul Chodas, director of the Center for Near-Earth Object Studies, and Davide Farnocchia, navigation engineer, at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California .
“The comet will brighten slightly as it approaches the Sun, and should be visible to the naked eye in the west about an hour after sunset.”according to a joint email from Chodas and Farnocchia. “You should go somewhere away from the city lights and with a clear view of the western horizon. It would be advisable to use binoculars, as without them it may be difficult to locate the comet.”.
When can Comet Diablo be seen in the US?
It is estimated that Comet Diablo will be visible in the United States, and the ideal date for the observation will be April 21, when it reaches its closest approach to the Sun, that is, at sunset (at 19:25, Los Angeles time). .
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How to watch NASA+ by streaming?
Since 2023, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration has enabled a streaming service called NASA+ that is available on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV and devices. Here you can also follow the broadcast of Comet Diablo this April 21.
Why is it called Comet Diablo?
Pons-Brooks is a cryovolcanic (or cold volcano) comet. These comets consist of an icy core surrounded by a coma, a layer of gas and dust. As they approach the Sun, the increase in temperature and pressure triggers intense explosions, releasing large amounts of ice and gas into space. The phenomenon is similar to volcanic eruptions on Earth, but with frozen materials instead of molten lava.
Pons-Brooks is known for its periodic eruptions. But on October 5, 2023, astronomers spotted a particularly large explosion. It made the comet much brighter and also developed two horn-like tails. The “horns” have since disappeared and the comet’s recent eruptions have not been as dramatic. However, the nickname has stuck.
Comet Diablo will pass this Sunday, April 21, in Mexico. (Video: @GobDMazatlan).
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