A Comet for the New Year

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Within range of small telescopes, and perhaps big binoculars, Comet 8P/Tuttle is presently cruising between Beta Ari and Eta Pisci. Though reports have it at mag 6, from our urban location this object, about 10′ in diameter, is fairly diffuse, though it does have a distinguishable stellar core.

Not a particularly easy find, especially on a cold and windy night, we had just about given up the hunt when Gail spotted it a little further North than our chart indicated. This comet is not expected to get much brighter than it currently is so grab it while you can.

Happy New Year Everyone!