Rare ‘devil's comet’ seen once every 71 years will be visible above Nottinghamshire

A hugely rare ‘devil’s comet’ which passes by earth once every 71 years will be visible in the skies above Nottinghamshire later this month. 

The 12P/Pons-Brooks comet will pass through our skies in March and April, before disappearing again until 2095. 

Nicknamed the ‘devil's comet’ due to the presence of two ‘horns’ on its structure, it was last seen by humans 1953. 

The comet is bigger than Mount Everest and is made of dust and ice, leaving a green trail behind it. 

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It’s thought that those hoping to catch a glimpse of the comet without any specialist equipment will have the best chance of doing so overnight on March 30 and March 31. 

Astronomers say that using a telescope will aid chances of seeing the comet. 

Comets are formed from chunks of ice and dust, which both begin to melt as they pass the sun. 

This turns the water into a gas, creating a stunning bright trail behind the comet. 

As always with comets and meteors, those surrounded by darkness will have the best chance of seeing them. 

Here in Nottingham, amateur astronomers should consider swapping the city centre for the countryside outside the city to avoid light pollution. 

Spots worth bearing in mind are the Bennerley Viaduct, Rushcliffe Country Park and Colwick Country Park.