[TheForge] Off Topic - New Year Comet

[Dave Mudge]

Space Weather News for Dec. 29, 2007
 http://spaceweather.com

 After a 13.6 year absence, Comet 8P/Tuttle is once again traveling
through the inner solar system. On Jan. 1 and 2, 2008, it makes its
closest approach to Earth--only 24 million miles away. The
emerald-colored comet will brighten to a predicted magnitude of 5.8,
visible to the unaided eye from dark-sky sites and a fine target for
backyard telescopes anywhere.

 Two nights before closest approach, on Dec. 30th and 31st, something
extraordinary will happen: Comet 8P/Tuttle has a beautiful close
encounter with spiral galaxy M33. The comet and the galaxy may even
overlap!  This is a can't-miss opportunity for astrophotographers
around the world.

 Visit http://spaceweather.com for sky maps, photos and more information.

 dave mudge
 Sorry about no blacksmithing content here, but I thought that you
would all like to know.