A "Devil Comet", which is the size of Mount Everest and only comes around once every 70 years, will be making an appearance in the coming days.
Dubbed Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, this galactic giant is currently making its way through the solar system and can currently be seen via a telescope.
But it might be visible to the naked eye soon.
Astronomers anticipate that by the end of March, it could illuminate the dusk skies in the Northern Hemisphere against the backdrop of the zodiacal constellation Aries, per Space.com.
Elizabeth Warner, director of the University of Maryland Astronomy Observatory, sheds light on the comet's trajectory, noting that it will reach its closest approach to the sun by April 21, before gradually fading from view in the Northern Hemisphere come May.
If you're located in the Southern Hemisphere, you will still have a chance to catch a glimpse before it vanishes until its next appearance in 2095.
"While the comet will become a little brighter, it will likely stay a binocular object in many places," Warner explained to The Washington Post. "From dark locations, it might be visible to the naked eye."
The comet earned its name the "Devil Comet" following an unexpected surge in brightness, reminiscent of devilish horns, per the New York Post.
Scientists speculate that more of these dramatic flares could occur throughout this month.
The cause of these flare-ups remains a mystery, although experts entertain the possibility of active ice volcanoes on the comet's surface, erupting and causing these flashes of brightness.
With the upcoming solar eclipse on April 8, there's even speculation that another flare-up could coincide with the celestial event.
However, not all experts are convinced. Comet specialist John Bortle dismisses the notion of significant additional flare-ups, claiming that the comet has already brightened considerably as it approaches the sun.
"As a result, the outburst brightness cannot overwhelm the overall brightness of the comet's coma as easily," Bortle explains.
Nevertheless, Lori Feaga, a professor specializing in comets at the University of Maryland, advises enthusiasts not to overlook the eclipse in pursuit of the comet.
"Of course, the real show is the eclipse, so don't miss enjoying that by spending the entirety of totality hunting for the comet," Feaga advised interested viewers.
