[meteorite-list] Comet Lulin (C/2007 N3) Loses Part Of Its Tail

From: Ron Baalke <baalke_at_meteoritecentral.com>
Date: Thu, 5 Feb 2009 14:42:45 -0800 (PST)
Message-ID: <200902052242.OAA00397_at_zagami.jpl.nasa.gov>

Space Weather News for Feb. 5, 2009
http://spaceweather.com

COMET TAIL: Comet Lulin (C/2007 N3) is approaching Earth and
putting on a good show for amateur astronomers. Yesterday,
Feb. 4th, observers witnessed a "disconnection event." A
gust of solar wind tore off part of the comet's tail in
plain view of backyard telescopes. Photos of the event are
featured on today's edition of http://spaceweather.com.
Activity in the comet's tail and atmosphere will become
even easier to see in the weeks ahead as Lulin nears
closest approach on Feb. 24th. At that time the
comet will lie only 38 million miles from Earth and it
should be visible to the naked eye. In the meantime,
please note that Feb. 5th-7th, is an especially good
time to find Comet Lulin in the pre-dawn sky. The comet
is gliding beautifully close to the naked-eye double
star Zubenelgenubi. Just point your binoculars at the
double star and the comet will materialize right beside
it. Visit http://spaceweather.com for photos, sky maps
and more information.
Received on Thu 05 Feb 2009 05:42:45 PM PST