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Uploaded 31-Oct-07
Taken 31-Oct-07
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Comet 17p/Homes Oct 30/07 Beginings of Tail

Comet 17p/Homes Oct 30/07 Beginings of Tail

This sketch was done on the evening of Oct 30 at approximately 2145 hrs PDST (UT 0445 Oct 31) I was observing using the f/5 635mm Newtonian at Pearson College. The comet has grown so large that it no longer fits comfortably within the FOV of the higher magnification (215X, 17mm T4 Nagler on a Paracorr) that I had previously been observing it at with this scope. I had to switch to 91X (40mm Optilux on Paracorr). The surface brightness of the coma appears to be more even and its outer edge blends a little bit more into the outer halo. Off to the west I noticed a slight brightening heading off of the outer halo. When I moved the central brightness out of the FOV it became more defined. It appears to me I was seeing the beginnings of a tail! The central fan at the center of the coma has broadened and become more nebulous. The bright stellar pseudonucleus appeared to be less distinct and blended in more with the fan. Perhaps this was a function of seeing conditions or maybe that I was observing at a lower power. Earlier in the evening at higher power it had been more distinct. Every night for the past seven this comet has continued to amaze me with its ever-changing character.