Story perspectives

Unusual Radio Signals Reveal Comet's Hidden Volatile Secrets

10/31/2025

22 5

Summary

Story summary

Researchers from the Shanghai Astronomical Observatory detected unusual radio signals from comet 12P/Pons-Brooks using the Tianma Radio Telescope.
This marks the most distant detection of ammonia in a Halley-type comet.
Between December 2023 and March 2024, 12P/Pons-Brooks released more than 4.5 metric tons of water vapor per second as it approached the Sun.
The findings suggest pockets of volatile materials beneath the surface may trigger explosive gas releases.

1 of 1

Story summary

Researchers from the Shanghai Astronomical Observatory detected unusual radio signals from comet 12P/Pons-Brooks using the Tianma Radio Telescope.
This marks the most distant detection of ammonia in a Halley-type comet.
Between December 2023 and March 2024, 12P/Pons-Brooks released more than 4.5 metric tons of water vapor per second as it approached the Sun.
The findings suggest pockets of volatile materials beneath the surface may trigger explosive gas releases.