Reports from Geisei Observatory <February 18, 2009>

C/2007 N3 (Lulin)

    The following are the observations of Comet Lulin. It was 6.5 magnitude by precise photographic observation, but visually it was brighter at 5th magnitude, barely visible to the naked eye. The nebula-like coma was 10' in diameter with a slightly brighter center and very diffused near the edges. A color photograph by the 70cm telescope also shows a large coma 10' across. With a longer exposure, it will capture faint outlying areas making the coma appear more extensive.
    The comet is in Virgo at the moment and rapidly approaching the earth. It will be easily seen by the naked-eye if it brightens by one magnitude. This photograph below was made with automated 12-minute Metcalf-guiding. In this mode the telescope operates perfectly as long as the correct orbital elements are entered.

    CK06W030   2009 02 17.41146 22 24 05.26 +36 04 59.2          12.4 T      372
    CK06W030   2009 02 17.41840 22 24 05.52 +36 04 56.5                      372
    CK06W030   2009 02 17.42118 22 24 05.61 +36 04 55.0          12.3 T      372