Credit By: LADbible
Scientists have reported the discovery of a giant comet known as “horned” that is three times larger than Mount Everest. It has erupted and is currently heading toward Earth in a stunning cosmic event. Astronomers and space enthusiasts are intrigued and alarmed by this remarkable event.
The Mysterious Explosion
Comet Identification:
12P/Pons-Brooks, a comet classified as a cryovolcanic, or cold volcano, comet, was linked to this spectacular outburst. According to Live Science, its enormous size—roughly 18.6 miles in diameter—is comparable to that of a small metropolis. For comparison, the highest mountain on Earth, Mount Everest, is located at a height of approximately 5.5 miles, or 29,029 feet.
Recurring Explosions:
It’s noteworthy that this is this interstellar comet’s second outburst in the previous four months. July was the previous cosmic explosion, according to Science Times.
Astronomical Findings
Brightened Appearance:
After noticing a notable rise in the comet’s brightness, the British Astronomical Association, which keeps a careful eye on comet 12P, discovered this explosive phenomenon. This amazing glow was caused by light reflected from its coma, the gas cloud surrounding its center.
The Comet’s Horned Appearance:
According to Space Weather Archive, the explosion caused the comet to develop remarkable “horns” that resembled the famous spacecraft Millennium Falcon from the “Star Wars” film series.
Peculiar Formation:
The origins of these “horns” are still unknown, but specialists speculate that they could have something to do with the distinctive nucleus form of 12P, possibly as a result of an oddly shaped cryovolcanic vent that exhales material in an eccentrically patterned flow.
Earth’s Relationship with Pons-Brooks and 12P
Although the comet’s trajectory seems concerning, there isn’t any reason to panic just yet. It won’t approach Earth at its closest point until 2024 when 12P/Pons-Brooks is predicted to be visible to the unaided eye. It won’t be expected back until 2095. After that, it will be launched back into the solar system.
Abnormal Cosmological Occurrences
Of the 20 comets known to have active ice volcanoes, Comet 12P is supposedly one of them. A volcanically active comet is 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann, which in December produced its largest eruption in 12 years and blasted over a million tons of cryomagma into space.
In conclusion, the enormous “horned” comet 12P/Pons-Brooks’ outburst and path provide an amazing astronomical show. Even while it could seem unsettling at first, astronomers and stargazers will have a rare chance to witness this celestial spectacle when the comet reappears.
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