• Quick note - the problem with Youtube videos not embedding on the forum appears to have been fixed, thanks to ZiprHead. If you do still see problems let me know.

Comet Machholz

mummymonkey

Did you spill my pint?
mummymonkey
Joined
Dec 3, 2002
Messages
2,052
Location
Scotland
Just checked out Comet Machholz which is visible to the naked eye tonight (just). Easily seen with binoculars just under The Pleiades (to the right of Orion).

Not as good as Hale-Bopp but about the same as Halleys
 
I've been watching it here in New Brunswick, but from my backyard in the city it is pretty dim. I haven't been able to get out of town to get a good look yet. But I can tell it would be nice under a really dark sky. If only someone would lend me their car.
 
I've been watching it as well over the past couple of months in my 8" Dob. It's visible to the naked eye from my suburban backyard, though it's hard to find.

It does pass within 2 or 3 degrees of the Pleiades next week though - that should be a good show in binoculars or a scope.
 
The clouds parted just long enough last night for me to finally view it with binoculars. It's actually the first comet I've ever seen so I found it an excellent sight.
 
I was out this tuesday and had a look at it through my binoculars. It was my first comet also and I took a picture of it, it will be a while before I develop the film though as I just started on that roll. I'l try and track it again next coming weeks if only the weather gods allow it.
 
Here's a nice picture of the comet near the Pleiades. Not taken by me sadly.

It has two tails, the ion tail and the dust tail. I couldn't make them out with my little Meade ETX70 telescope, but it's still a lovely sight.
 
Two degrees west of the Pleiades tonight and what will I see?

Why the same thing I've seen for the past week zilch.

clouds1705.jpg


Looks like some folks in Texas might have a nice time though.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Back
Top Bottom