Fast Flashing 2004-021B

Just as dawn was starting to set in this morning, I was able to observe the
recently launched rocket booster for Cosmos 2406, labeled as SL-16 R/B on the
Heavens-Above Web Site. (2004-021B or 28353.)

At 4:26 AM (9:46 UT June 20th) it passed through Cygnus and Cepheus nearly
overhead from my yard. I used 7X35 binoculars to spot it, since it was bright
enough for only 1st - 2nd magnitude stars to be visible.

The rocket was flashing very rapidly, very roughly twice a second, going from
2nd or 3rd magnitude down to 4th or 5th (it was tough to make a good estimate).


This is a very interesting object and I hope to keep track of it and see it
under darker skies soon!

Paul Z
Indianapolis, IN