Comet 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann is a fascinating object. It orbits beyond
Jupiter and, compared to the comets that we are used to, it has a
massive nucleus, over 60km in diameter. It also has frequent outbursts.
The section's 29P observation programme is run by Richard Miles and he
has recently added a new page to the Comet Section website which you can
find here:
https://britastro.org/node/24942
This page will be frequently updated with observational news. In fact,
it currently includes a report of a mini-outburst from yesterday (Nov
13), so it is worth checking back regularly to see the latest news and
analysis.
Our objective is to observe this comet in a standard way so that Richard
can receives estimates with a high degree of consistency between
observers. Details of the approach to be adopted are on this web page
and they are reproduced in the section observing guide which you can
download from here:
https://britastro.org/node/6817
The comet is now well placed for northern hemisphere observers and we
would like to receive your observations. If you have not already done so
please consider adding this fascinating comet to your programmes.
Many thanks to Richard for running this programme and maintaining the
web page.
Nick James. Director.