AAPOD2 Image Archives
Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks
Comet 12/P, a periodic comet with an orbital period of about 70 years, has ventured from the outer reaches of our solar system to become a transient beacon in the night sky. This image captures its brilliant nucleus, enveloped in a delicate coma of gas and dust, as it reflects the Sun's light and paints a celestial brushstroke against the cosmic backdrop.
As the comet's trajectory brings it closer to Earth, it becomes a captivating sight for astronomers and sky gazers alike. The image showcases the dynamic nature of this celestial traveler, illustrating its evolution over time and highlighting the intricate details of its glowing tail, a testament to the solar wind's influence on its luminous display.