We will be able to see this year's first naked-eye comet this month. It is best viewed from a dark-sky location, far from city lights. If you know where to look you may still be able to spot it in other locations, especially when using binoculars or a telescope. Sky & Telescope has provided a viewing chart. Around January 20th - closest to the new moon - will be the best time to look, but you should try other dates if the sky is clear in your location. Here is a link to the chart. http://www.skyandtelescope.com/wp-content/uploads/Lovejoy2_BW.pdf
Lovejoy2_BW.pdf (0.13 Mb)
Cris, Thanks for the resources. I am glad that i obtained it in time. Our Students are just about to start Comets, meteor and asteroids. I will challenge them to find some of the constellations and identify the comet on 1/7/15. Then discuss any implications or new learning the next class!
I found some comet activities to coincide with Comet Lovejoy that might be of interest for your classes if you are lucky enough to have the time. You'll find the links below the article: http://www.shareitscience.com/2015/01/comet-lovejoy-coming-to-sky-near-you.html My students are excited to try to see it! It's been a great couple of years for viewable astronomical events with the tetrad of lunar eclipses, the recent Geminid shower, etc. Have fun sky-gazing!
Hi Sarah, Thanks for the post. The resources will be great for my students.
Great! I hope it is useful!
Have any of you been able to see the comet? I have not - cloudy skies are common at night this time of year….
Sadly, I have not! Not for lack of trying, even on a clear night in a rural area I didn't see it. I do know one family at my school that has seen it several times though.
I would have loved to show my students this. I will use the resources though! Thank you for this post.
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