Space Weather News for Dec. 29, 2007
After a 13.6 year absence, Comet 8P/Tuttle is once again traveling through the inner solar system. On Jan 1 and 2, 2008, it makes its closest approach to Earth--only 24 million miles away. The emerald-colored comet will brighten to a predicted magnitude of 5.8, visible to the unaided eye from dark-sky sites and a fine target for backyard telescopes anywhere.
Two nights before closest approach, on Dec 30 and 31, something extraordinary will happen: Comet 8P/Tuttle has a beautiful close encounter with spiral galaxy M33. The comet and the galaxy may even overlap! This is a can't-miss opportunity for astrophotographers around the world.
Visit SpaceWeather.com for sky maps, photos and more information.#
Emerald green? Very groovy! and since campaign "debates" got no rebuttal, give them up and look for Tuttle!