Comet 17P/Holmes: Possibility of a CO driven explosion

► We simulated sublimation of CO ice within nucleus of Comet Holmes. ► The tensile strength of the nucleus of Comet Holmes can be as low as 10 kPa. ► When the nucleus is very fine-grained the CO pressure can exceed 10 kPa. ► Sublimation of CO ice within nucleus of Comet Holmes may cause explosion.