Infrared photometry of periodic comets
Abstract
18 comets, ranging in helicentric distance from 1 to 5 AU were observed with the NASA IRTF. Highlights for 1985-86 include: (1)Halley was detected 1/85 and 3/85 at R = 5 and 4.5 AU; (2) Regular Halley monitoring program was set up in collaboration with IRTF staff; (3)Nucleus of Arend-Rigaux was detected, light curve observed (0.6 m amplitude at 10 microns) and radius derived (5 km); (4)Dust coma of Giacobini-Zinner was observed at time of ICE encounter; and (5)Mapping of the thermal emission spectrum simultaneously with the S/C encounters is scheduled for March 1986.
- Publication:
-
Planetary Astronomy, 1985
- Pub Date:
- September 1986
- Bibcode:
- 1986plas.rept...92H
- Keywords:
-
- Comet Nuclei;
- Giacobini-Zinner Comet;
- Halley'S Comet;
- Infrared Photometry;
- Cosmic Dust;
- Light Curve;
- Telescopes;
- Thermal Mapping;
- Astronomy