Written in SCIENCE he
Besides of solar eclipse that we can see from Mexico, there is another relevant phenomenon that will also be observable from the country and that is just as relevant, since the next time it appears close enough to see it is in 2095.
This is the Devil's Comet, whose official name is 12P/Pons-Brooks, which exploded on October 5, 2023 and prior to that, suffered two internal fractures in the last four months, which resulted in the loss of a significant amount of dust and ice. This is what gave rise to her nickname, detailed from National Geographic.
“He received his nickname, devil comet, after one of his ejaculations, two little horns formed. When the scientific community realized this fact, they began to joke about it and relate it to the devil. Coincidentally, his ejection occurred in October, around Halloween, and therefore it seemed good to many to leave him that pseudonym,” he explained in an article, René A. Ortega Minakata, from the Institute of Radio Astronomy and Astrophysics of the UNAM.
Its core contains a mixture of ice, dust and gas, which is why astronomers categorize it as a cryovolcano.
Furthermore, another interesting fact is the fact that this celestial body is three times larger than Mount Everest, the highest mountain on our planet: it measures almost nine kilometers.
How can I see Comet Diablo?
According to Ortega Minakata, if you want to see the Devil Cometit is ideal to do it on April 21, since that day it will have its closest approach to the Sun.
However, it is possible to see it a few days before and a few days after that date as it will be visible between April 14 and 30.
To see it, you need to use binoculars, focusing them towards the west and near the horizon, at sunset. In addition, it is recommended that you go to areas with little light pollution since, according to Minakata, “comets are particularly difficult to find, because the brightness by which we say they are visible is not concentrated in a small point, but is spread out.” ”.
The Solar Eclipse that will also occur in April
On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse that will cross the northern part of the country according to the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). It will cross from Sinaloa to Coahuila.
According to university astronomers, the last time a eclipse Similar in Mexico was in July 1991, so you cannot miss this great opportunity to enjoy this spectacle of nature again.
In the rest of the country, the eclipse will be partially appreciated so depending on where in the country you are going to see it from, it is recommended to take the necessary measures to be able to enjoy it.