A colossal comet, measuring three times the size of Mount Everest, is currently on a trajectory toward Earth.

The immensity of this cold volcano comet is truly astonishing, boasting an estimated diameter of 18.6 miles.

This colossal celestial body’s core is replete with a blend of ice, dust, and gas, known as cryomagma. Referred to as 12P/Pons-Brooks, or simply 12P in scientific circles, this comet recently experienced its second explosive event in four months, which restored its distinct ‘horned’ appearance.

The cause of these explosions can be attributed to solar radiation penetrating the comet’s interior, leading to a buildup of pressure that ultimately triggers an explosion. Subsequently, it releases its frigid interior materials into space through openings in the nucleus’s shell, giving rise to the distinctive horn-like features.

Richard Miles of The British Astronomical Association (BAA) commented on these unique attributes, suggesting that the two ‘horns’ might result from an oddly shaped cryovolcanic vent, possibly obstructed, leading to an unusual material expulsion pattern. According to Miles, 12P is one of only 20 known comets featuring active ice volcanoes.

The BAA has been closely monitoring this comet, and scientists observed the second explosion on October 5, as 12P became significantly brighter than usual due to increased light reflecting from its expanded coma, as explained by the BAA.

Photographs of the explosion were captured by Jose Manuel Pérez Redondo using a 2.0-meter Faulkes Telescope North situated on the Hawaiian island of Maui.

While 12P is currently on a trajectory that will bring it in the vicinity of Earth, it will be some time before the comet reaches its closest approach to our planet. According to LiveScience, the comet is expected to make its nearest approach to Earth on April 21, 2024.