Space windsock needs a snap

A COMET is passing through the sky this spring, but one thing may be missing – and astronomers are appealing for photographs of its visit.

A professor from The University of Reading has conducted research which shows that a comet is set to pass by Earth later this year, but with an unusual difference.

Sarah Watson, a PHD researcher at the university, is leading the team which is examining the path of C/2021 S3 Pannstars.

The comet became visible through telescopes on Wednesday last week, but is not visible to the naked eye, and is notably missing its tail.

The tail of a comet is often observed as a thin trail following a brighter object, but researchers say that this comet may look unusual as solar winds may “detach” this tail.

The university is appealing for amateur astronomers to contribute time-stamped photographs of the comet, which can be used to study its journey and support forecasts.

These forecasts prevent the problems that solar winds can cause on Earth, such as damaging technology.

Comets are sometimes referred to as “space windsocks” due to their indication of the effects that streams of particles given off by the sun.

These can damage satellites, harm air crews, and disrupt communications systems.

A telescope or a large-lensed camera is required to capture an image of the comet with enough detail, and research particularly focused on the “bright dash” behind a “fuzzy” object in the sky.

Researchers are eager for images of breaks in the tail as well as information about the time and location of the photograph.

Ms Watson said: “What we are expecting to see may look rather unusual. When we talk about comets, people often think of a large, bright sphere followed by a long thin tail.

“The comet we are observing may look different as its tail could ‘detach’ as it is buffeted by solar winds.

“We need lots of timed photos of the comet to build up a picture of its journey through our solar system. This is a fantastic opportunity for amateur astronomers to get out their telescopes, capture a truly spectacular cosmic moment and make a big contribution to some important science.”

The best image submissions will be archived by the British Astronomical Association.

■ Data and images should be sent to: s.r.watson@pgr.reading.ac.uk.