Comet

COMET TAIL: Comet Lulin (C/2007 N3) is approaching Earth and putting on a good
show for amateur astronomers. On 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.