January 11th 07, 01:16 AM
posted to alt.astronomy
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Comet McNaught: Brightest Comet in 30 Years On Display Tonight
Warhol wrote:
Comet McNaught: Brightest Comet in 30 Years On Display Tonight
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By Gene Byrd
Jan 10, 2007
The brightest comet in thirty years may be able to be seen by the naked
eye tonight. Comet McNaught is plunging toward the sun, and the heat is
causing it to brighten dramatically. A few days ago, it was barely
visible in evening twilight, but now it pops into view while the sky is
still glowing blue. Only Venus is brighter.
Comet McNaught: Brightest Comet in 30 Years On Display Tonight
BBS News is reporting that Comet McNaught has continued to brighten as
it approaches the sun and it is now the brightest comet in 30 years.
***
For observers in the northern Hemisphere, tonight is probably the best
time to see it: Go outside this evening and face the sunset. A clear
view of the western horizon is essential, because the comet hangs very
low.
As the twilight fades to black, it should become visible to the naked
eye. Observers say it's a fantastic sight through binoculars.
***
Spaceweather.com notes that if you have trouble finding the comet
(because of clouds or glare) you should scan the horizon with
binoculars.
"What a beautiful sight! Last night, comet McNaught was easily visible
to the naked eye and even more stunning in 10x50 binoculars," reports
Chris Cook of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, according to the website. "The
star-like nucleus glowed with a golden hue as a broad elegant tail
extended more than one degree: image."
More info at Spacewather.Com
http://www.nationalledger.com/artman...72610905.shtml
Took a look, but nothing but clouds. Around here, astronomy has to be
put on hold until spring!
Double-A
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