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Comet Pons-Brooks Visible for First Time in 71 Years

The 'devil comet,' known for its periodic visits and recent outbursts, can currently be seen with telescopes and may soon be visible to the naked eye.

  • Comet Pons-Brooks, last visible in 1954, has returned to the night sky and is now visible through binoculars or telescopes, with potential visibility to the naked eye in the coming weeks.
  • The comet, known for its short orbital period of 71 years, has experienced several brightness outbursts, one of which shaped its coma into devil's horns, earning it the nickname 'devil comet'.
  • It was officially discovered in 1812 and has a history of being observed as far back as 1385.
  • Astronomers and stargazers may have the unique opportunity to see the comet during next month's total solar eclipse, though it will likely require binoculars.
  • The comet will remain visible from the Northern Hemisphere until early May before moving to the Southern Hemisphere and fading from view until 2095.
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