Massive comet with 'horns' and active volcano approaches Earth

A colossal comet, known as 12P/Pons-Brooks, is hurtling towards Earth, showcasing its distinctive "horns."

Even after experiencing its second major eruption in just four months, these prominent features remain visible.

This massive comet carries a unique secret – an active volcano perched atop it. Approximately the size of a city, this comet harbours a volcano that is set to erupt once more, just four months after its initial explosion. As it journeys sunward, it is expected to emit a striking cloud of gas and ice, resembling a pair of horns protruding from the asteroid's surface.

12P/Pons-Brooks is categorized as a cryovolcanic, or cold volcano, comet. Its core, measuring about 30 kilometres in diameter, comprises a combination of gas, dust, and ice, collectively referred to as "cryomagma."

The comet's nucleus is enveloped by a shroud of gas, known as a "coma." When the nucleus heats up and struggles to contain the rising temperature, it releases explosions into the void of space.

According to a report by Spaceweather.com, the comet has exhibited further expansion and the development of its distinctive "horns." Some experts have even drawn comparisons, noting that the comet's irregular shape bears a striking resemblance to science fiction spaceships, such as the Millennium Falcon from Star Wars.

In the coming days, the comet's coma is expected to continue expanding and further accentuating its remarkable "horns," as reported by Spaceweather.com. Several experts have attributed the irregular shape of the coma to anomalies in the comet's nucleus.

Richard Miles, an astronomer from the British Academy of Astronomy (BAA), revealed to Live Science that the unusual shape of the coma can be attributed to the prolonged expansion of gases within the comet, shaping its irregular form.



At present, comet 12P is progressing towards the inner regions of our solar system, destined to continue its orbit and ultimately slingshot on its trajectory toward the Sun.

This extraordinary celestial phenomenon will captivate Earth's residents on April 21, 2024, before propelling the comet back toward the outer reaches of the solar system. Notably, this comet will not return until 2095.