Comet
passing 'once in a lifetime' spectacle
Stargazers could enjoy a "once in a
lifetime" spectacle as a bright comet swings into the
Northern Hemisphere. The
icy mass, called C/2011 L4 Pan-Starrs, should be visible
with binoculars or a telescope from 8 March. But in the following
days, it will become even brighter and could be seen
with the naked eye. Astronomers
in the Southern Hemisphere have already been treated to
a fly past, with reports that the body was as bright as
stars in the Plough. Science
reporter Rebecca Morelle explained to the BBC's Stephen
Sackur why the comet is particularly unusual. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-21717450
Bright comet 'lighting sky' as it flies
by Earth
Stargazers could enjoy a rare spectacle as
a bright comet swings into the Northern Hemisphere. The icy mass, called
C/2011 L4 Pan-Starrs, should be visible with binoculars
or a telescope from 8 March.
But in the following days, it will become even
brighter and could be seen with the naked eye. Astronomers in the
Southern Hemisphere have already been treated to a fly
past, with reports that the body was as bright as stars
in the Plough. Mark
Bailey, director of the Armagh Observatory in Northern
Ireland, said: "We have great hopes for this comet. Of
course we are always very cautious - even now we don't
know how bright it is going to get - but we are keeping
out fingers crossed."
Once in a lifetime
The comet was first discovered in June
2011, spotted by the Pan-Starrs telescope (hence its
name) in Hawaii as a faint object more than a billion
kilometres away. The
12 and 13 March could provide the best viewing
opportunity. At this time, it will move
further from the Sun, but should be easier to spot in
the night sky, providing it is a clear night. "After sunset, scan the
horizon roughly in the western direction. On the
12 and 13 March, there is a nice
association with the thin crescent Moon,"
advised Prof Bailey.
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Next Week!!! Now!!!
March 12, will be the sighting of the New Moon of
Nisan... 1st of Nisan! (if the
barley is Aviv...) http://www.fivedoves.com/letters/march2013/friedrichw34.htm
March 12, Roman Catholic cardinals will
begin electing a new pope on 12 March… http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-21717883
Surely
…A Once in a lifetime Time…!!!
Luk 21:25 And there shall be
signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars;
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Luk 21:28
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And when
these things begin to come to pass, then look up,
and lift up your heads; for your redemption
draweth nigh.
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Rev 1:7 Behold, he cometh…
Maranatha!
Come Lord Jesus