Thailand’s sky watchers had a unique opportunity on Sunday evening (Apr 21) to observe Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks as it made its closest approach to the sun, an event that will not occur again for another 71 years.
According to the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT), the comet was optimally positioned for viewing just after dusk in the western sky until approximately 8 p.m. at a distance of about 116 million kilometers from the Sun.
Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, currently between the constellations Taurus and Aries, can still be observed with the naked eye under dark skies free of light pollution. To the unaided eye, it might appear as a faint, hazy star, less distinct than the others. However, using binoculars can reveal more details about the comet, especially its tail, enhancing the viewing experience.
Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks’s next close encounter with Earth and the sun is scheduled for 2095. (NNT)
