Component B of comet 73P in outburst

Hi all,

Component B of comet 73P has brightened significantly in the last few
nights and is now as bright as 5th magnitude. It has been reported as a
naked eye object even in moonlight.

In images this component is also showing a great deal of activity in its
nucleus, including jets and arcs.

I urge observers, despite the moonlight for northern hemisphere
locations, to get out their largest telescopes and have a look at both
of these comet fragments tonight. In addition to the very nice views at
low power, don't neglect high magnifications. A close look at the
nuclear region of component B may reveal rare and wonderful sights!

But don't wait: there are signs that the outburst of "B" may already be
subsiding.

For the latest:
http://www.skyhound.com/sh/73P.html (updated daily)

Clear skies,
Greg

--
Greg Crinklaw
Astronomical Software Developer
Cloudcroft, New Mexico, USA (33N, 106W, 2700m)

SkyTools: http://www.skyhound.com/cs.html
Observing: http://www.skyhound.com/sh/skyhound.html
Comets: http://www.skyhound.com/sh/comets.html

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