Via the
Sydney
Morning Herald: Excitement is growing in the field of astronomy as fragments of comet Schwassmann-Wachmann 3
are expected to enter the inner solar system. The comet, which unexpectedly broke apart in 1995, will be making
its closest trajectory ear Earth, along with its fragments, May 11th – 12th.
"We are watching a comet
die," said Dr. Nick Lomb, astronomer at the Powerhouse Museum’s Sydney Observatory. "We scientists will
have a ringside view."
The Sydney Morning Herald says that "the best view of the comet’s fragments,
visible with binoculars, would be before dawn on May 11." Unfortunately, I can’t find any information as to
how easily the comet’s fragments will be seen in the rest of the world — however, if you manage to see them, be
sure to let us know!