Major Fragments Now in Comet 73-P

[drclay]

On April 14, it was suggested from observations of ASO_H45 that the "B" component of Comet Schwassmann-Wachmann 73P might be splitting; detailed photo processing by ASO member Mike Holloway revealed just days ago that a second fragment might be evident in images taken from Petit Jean Mountain ASO.

This morning, April 22, the following image of this part of the 40+ fragment comet was taken revealing for the first time two very distinct and nearly equal parts to Component "B"

The new fragment is about 7.2" arc from the primary component in position angle 230 degrees; the primary was measured at ASO as magnitude 15.4 ccc and the new particle at magnitude 16.0.

More as it develops!