NASA’s STEREO-A solar observatory is closely monitoring the ‘Devil Comet’ 12P/Pons-Brooks as it approaches its closest point to the sun, known as perihelion, on April 21.

Captured in footage from the observatory, the comet passes by Jupiter as a coronal mass ejection (CME) erupts from the sun.

These CMEs, triggered by magnetic reconnection on the sun’s surface, can disrupt a comet’s tail, as seen in the comet’s kinked tail caused by a ‘disconnection event.’

Astronomers, like Chris Schur, have captured stunning images of the comet, noting its changing appearance as it heads toward perihelion, Space.com has reported.

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, also known as the ‘Devil Comet,’ has drawn attention for its sudden brightness changes and speculated ice volcanoes, which may cause explosive outbursts.

Its unique features have led to comparisons with various shapes, including a horseshoe crab and the Millennium Falcon from Star Wars.

Written by B.C. Begley