Astronomy · Observing Logs · Tag · comet machholz

The following are all the observing reports tagged with the term comet machholz displayed with the latest report first. If the report contains a direct reference to the tag then that part of the report will be displayed, otherwise only the report heading details will be present and you should click on the link to view the full report.

As this object has climbed in the sky it has got better and better. A naked eye fuzz just below the Pleiades tonight it looked great through the binoculars so I decided to train the 'scope on it. Well - wow - it looked amazing - far better than last time I tried. At x40 it dominated the field of view. The core was bright, a pin point of light, and surrounding this was the glow of the comet - staring at it for a while it was possible to see how this fuzz was slightly stretched to one side in a tear drop shape. Sadly, at x100 the light from the street lights completely ruined the view.

Although easy to find in the binoculars this proved a difficult find the 'scope. The problem was mainly due to the proximity to a street light and the washing out effect of the moon. Eventually, by starhopping from Alderbaran down Orions shield/bow I was able to find it. At all powers the comet was only visible as a fuzzy disc of light and was rather a disappointment. I shall return to it when it has gained more altitude and the moon has gone.

At around 23:00 I observed Comet Machholz through binoculars. It appeared as a round faint, fuzzy light. I will get the 'scope on it within the next few days.