Space/Science — HabitableZone

Space/Science » in reply to Ambushing 2004 BL 86

I caught XP14 on July 3 2006

Maximum estimated diameter of XP14 is 800m

It took two evenings of set up, learning an obscure field of dim stars. I use a 2" 30mm objective to give me a wide field because of the 1200mm focal length of my C11.

I set up that night with the given path of the asteroid right in the middle of the eyepiece. With an eye on my "atomic clock" on the observatory wall, I glued myself to focuser 3 minutes before it was due. I was thrilled to see a pinpoint light enter the field. The rock must have been tumbling because it's brightness varied regularly. I was treated to an 8 second show, then it was gone. I can't tell you how excited I was. I was the only one in the "CloudyNights" forum in the Seattle area that saw it.

Don't give up ER, they'll be others. And you'll be around to try again.

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