Rare Opportunity to See “Devil Comet” in Switzerland

After a journey spanning more than 70 years through space, Comet 12 / Pons-Brooks, also known as the Devil Comet, will once again become visible to the naked eye in Switzerland. Here’s how you can witness this stunning natural event over the next few days.

Background:

Comet 12 / Pons-Brooks, nicknamed the Devil Comet, will grace the skies above Swiss cities and cantons until early April 2024. Although it will get as close as 230 million kilometers to Earth by June, it will only be visible in the southern hemisphere at that point. Despite the seemingly vast distance, it will still be visible without any special equipment.

History:

The Devil Comet’s return is a rare cosmic occurrence, as it last passed Earth on June 29, 1954. Discovered by Jean-Louis Pons in 1812 and later rediscovered by William Robert Brooks in the 1880s, it earned its double-barreled name.

When to Watch:

According to Star Walk, the optimal viewing times for the Devil Comet in Switzerland are the nights between now and April 8, 2024. While it will shine brightest in early April, it will be easiest to spot towards the end of March.

Identifying the Comet:

Look for shimmering green bursts of light to spot the Devil Comet as it traverses the night sky.

How to Observe in Switzerland:

Best viewing time: Around dusk, starting from 7:30 pm.

Location: Look towards the west, approximately 10 degrees above the horizon.

Reference point: Locate it about three hand widths to the left of Jupiter.

Path: It will move through the constellations of Andromeda, Pisces, and Aries before disappearing below the horizon by 10:30 pm.

Enhancing Your View:

While visible to the naked eye, using binoculars or a telescope will provide a better view. Keep an eye on the weather and choose a clear night between now and April for optimal viewing.

Ideal Viewing Conditions:

To maximize your chances of seeing the comet, find a location with minimal artificial light. This often means leaving urban areas and heading to quiet fields, hills, or even mountain peaks.