Earth dodged an asteroid today, and tonight could be your chance to see it, Portland! According to our Director of Space Science Jim Todd, point your telescope (4” or higher) at M44, which lies between Jupiter and the star Pollux between 9 p.m. PST and 9:45 p.m. PST, the asteroid will be passing very close (eastern side) of this cluster. Experienced observers suggest the use of a wide angle (32mm or 35mm) eyepiece for this asteroid patrolling observation. Historically, any asteroid similar size to 2004 BL86 will be relatively “bright.” Unfortunately, since asteroids are generally black/grey with magnitude of 8.8, not bright enough to see with the naked eye, binoculars or even the smallest home telescopes (under 4”) should pick it up under dark skies. Another factor for tonight, the moon will be at waxing crescent phase. Possible to capture the flyby on long exposure at high speed with a DSLR camera. MAP: en.es-static.us/upl/2015/01/2004_BL86_wide_chart21.jpg
Posted on: Mon, 26 Jan 2015 23:45:16 +0000
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