Reports from Geisei Observatory <August 7, 2004>

• Nova Sco 2004 No.2
A photograph of the nova in Scorpius discovered by Mr. Akira Takao (Photograph 1).
The magnitude was estimated to be 9.6 using comparison stars in the GSC.
The position determined by observation using the 60cm reflector is as follows:

    07h29m18s.87   -31o46'02".2  (2000.0)

• C/2003 K4 (LINEAR)
This comet has recently brightened (Photograph 2).
Using a bright nearby comparison star (6.1 magnitude), I visually estimated its magnitude at 6.4 (m1) by the step method, 0.3 magnitude fainter than the comparison star. Under good conditions it may be visible to the binoculars or even to the naked eye faintly.
The same night I photographed it with the Epsilon astro-camera. The result will be presented at a later date.

Photograph 1: Nova Sco 2004 No.2
5-minute exposure on TM 400 film from 21:32, August 6, 2004 J.S.T.
60cm f/3.5 reflector

Photograph 2: C/2003 K4(LINEAR)
10-minute exposure on TP 6415 film from 20:15, August 6, 2004 J.S.T.
60cm f/3.5 reflector