The Eclipse Comet

By Violet Wisdom

There will be more to see come Monday than just a rare eclipse. Known as the Millennial Falcon, a horned comet will be close enough to the sun for many to see. According to Space.com, this comet could have a brightness outburst during the eclipse that could create an even more noticeable halo. Officially named 12P/Pons-Brooks, the comet was first discovered in July of 1812, by French astronomer Jean-Louis Pons although it is documented as being possibly seen in China as far back as 1385. Brightness outbursts, or flares are a hallmark of Millennial Falcon. Coming into view around every 70 years, this 2023-2024 arrival began increasing in brightness and visibility just last month.

Comets seen during an eclipse however are much more rare than you might think. There are only five known events since the year 418:

The year 418- Seen during eclipse in Europe and China (documented by Byzantines)

1882- Seen during eclipse in England, Italy, France and Egypt

1893- Seen during eclipse in South America and Africa

1948- Seen during eclipse in Nairobi

1997- Hale-Bopp seen during eclipse in China 

Beyond the possibility of seeing a full eclipse and a comet this Monday, April 8, 2024 we will also be able to see Venus and Jupiter.

Many astrologers believe that both comets and eclipses set periods of immense change. Additionally, they note the current connections of Mars- Saturn, and Mercury-Venus also initiate change. This very well could be one for the books friends.