Two comets, Comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) and Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, are making notable approaches to Earth in June 2024. While the former is currently in the constellation of Apus and poses no threat to Earth during its closest approach on January 14, 2025, the latter, also known as the 'Devil Comet,' will make its closest pass of Earth on Sunday, June 2.
Discovered independently by Jean-Louis Pons and William Robert Brooks in the early 19th and late 19th centuries respectively, Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks has a distinctive horned appearance during outbursts. Despite its nickname, it does not pose a threat to Earth during its closest approach.
Comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS), on the other hand, is currently in the constellation of Apus and at a distance of approximately 502 million kilometers from Earth. Its Right Ascension is 14h 21m 46s, and its Declination is -79 degrees. The estimated magnitude of this comet is currently at 17.73 (JPL).
The closest approach of Comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) to Earth will occur on January 14, 2025, when it will be at a distance of approximately 0.938 Astronomical Units or about 140 million kilometers from Earth.
Both comets offer unique opportunities for observation and study. For those in the Southern Hemisphere, Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks may be visible with binoculars or a small telescope during twilight hours. Recent outbursts of this comet have been attributed to the release of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide due to heating from the sun.
Comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS), while not making a close approach to Earth in June, is still an interesting object for observation. Its orbital eccentricity is 1.00031716 and its inclination is 117.01759 degrees.
It's important to note that while these comets are intriguing celestial bodies, they do not pose any threat to Earth during their respective approaches.