The book surveys centuries of observations and cultural responses to a periodic comet, compiling historical records, artistic depictions, and religious interpretations that link comet appearances with omens, disasters, and social panic. It recounts notable past comets and retells the life and role of the astronomer who recognized the object's periodic return, then shifts to scientific explanations of comet structure and orbit, contemporary photographs and illustrations, and assessments of collision risk and apocalyptic speculation. Chapters combine narrative history, scientific overview, and folklore to show how astronomical knowledge and popular fear have shaped responses to recurring celestial visitors.