"Volcanic Eruption Transforms 'Devil Comet' Approaching Earth into Green Spectacle"
The "devil comet" 12P/Pons-Brooks, known for its distinctive horns, has lost its iconic feature after its latest eruption. However, astronomers have observed new characteristics, including a rare green hue and a mysterious shadow. The comet, a cryovolcanic comet with an icy nucleus, has had three major eruptions, each causing its coma to expand and appear brighter. The recent eruption was the most extreme, but the horns were absent this time. It is unclear why they have disappeared, but it is speculated that the frequent eruptions may have damaged the obstruction causing the horns. The comet will make its closest approach to Earth in June 2022.