CHANCE OF MINOR FLARES: Solar activity is low and it is likely to remain so through Christmas. All of the sunspots on the Earthside of the sun have relatively stable magnetic fields that pose a threat only for minor C-class flares. The situation could change next week when one or more farside sunspots come over the horizon. Solar flare alerts: SMS Text.
CRYOVOLCANIC COMET OCCULTATION: What are the odds? For the second time in little more than a week, cryovolcanic Comet 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann is about to occult a star (13th magnitude), giving astronomers an opportunity to trace the shape of the comet, which may be festooned with ice volcanoes. The shadow track on Dec. 27th cuts across many populated areas in western USA:
"This event may prove to be the best this decade, so observers please do try and cover it," urges Dr. Richard Miles of the British Astronomical Association, a leading researcher of Comet 29P. The occultation occurs at approximately 12:20 UT or 4:20 am PST.
"A video record, preferably with absolute timing, is required," he adds. "Frame exposure times of 0.25 sec or shorter are recommended. The current weather forecast suggests that the north-western half of the track will be plagued by cloud. Most of New Mexico and Texas look to have largely clear skies early on the Tuesday morning."
For updates and more information, check the MISSION 29P website.
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