Comet 29P Schwassmann-Wachmann in 2008 Outburst

[drclay]

The remarkable comet Schwassmann-Wachmann (29P), which erupted into a massive outburst with major fragmentation in 2006, is at it again.  The comet recently has had some additional brightening and suggestions that another event might be forthcoming.

Note in the attached ASO image, obtained with the 0.5m astrographic telescope at f/3 from Petit Jean Mountain, two outstanding features:

1) the ejecta, perhaps dust, seen in the SW quadrant far from the center of the comet, but still within the perimeter of its extended large and unform gaseous coma;
2) in the negative image, look closely at the center (false nucleus) of the comet and surround the bright core, you will note a tight concentric ring of bright possible ejecta, something that can be common with this comet when undergoing an outburst.

The image, shown in both positive and negative, is a composite of 3-60 second exposures, CCD, with a field of 16 arc minutes and has not been further enhanced nor processed.

Further observations of this bright comet are encouraged.

Dr. Clay
ASO, H45 Petit Jean Mountain South

CLICK THUMBNAIL IMAGE BELOW TO ENLARGE