Post by Paulie pchris00 on Sept 29, 2011 19:25:43 GMT -6
I bought the November issue of Sky & Telescope last night, and in it is an hour-by-hour finder chart for Near Earth Asteroid 2005 YU55 for it's closest approach November 8-9. This little space rock will be a nice catch, since I've never seen a NEO, but it will be tough because of it's star-like appearance.
Since rare observations are more fun with others around who wll also appreciate the experience, and because multiple observers can catch and correct the mistake of any individual observer, I would like to try a group observation. I'm willing to go with whatever location is best for the majority of the crew, but of course I'm going to suggest Conway as the observation site. Also, at an estimated 11th magnitude, the more aperture we can throw at this rock, the better.
The Moon will be up and bright for the closest approach, adding one more challenge to the observation. If I've figured correctly, closest approach will be between 9 and 10 PM for us in the Central Time Zone, so that everybody should be able to observe the asteroid and still get home at a reasonable hour.
We all bring different equipment, technology, and skills to a group observation, and I think it will take a dedicated group effort to catch this little space rock. I'm happy to share any skill I might have with my fellow astronomers, and am not ashamed to take advantage of the skills and/or resources of another astronomer. let's add 2005 YU55 to our collective observation list for the year.
Since rare observations are more fun with others around who wll also appreciate the experience, and because multiple observers can catch and correct the mistake of any individual observer, I would like to try a group observation. I'm willing to go with whatever location is best for the majority of the crew, but of course I'm going to suggest Conway as the observation site. Also, at an estimated 11th magnitude, the more aperture we can throw at this rock, the better.
The Moon will be up and bright for the closest approach, adding one more challenge to the observation. If I've figured correctly, closest approach will be between 9 and 10 PM for us in the Central Time Zone, so that everybody should be able to observe the asteroid and still get home at a reasonable hour.
We all bring different equipment, technology, and skills to a group observation, and I think it will take a dedicated group effort to catch this little space rock. I'm happy to share any skill I might have with my fellow astronomers, and am not ashamed to take advantage of the skills and/or resources of another astronomer. let's add 2005 YU55 to our collective observation list for the year.
