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Comet 40-40
 
 

 

C/2006 M4 SWAN two days after its major outburst as seen in the 8.5" F/7 reflector. The coma was moderately condensed (D.C 6) with a diameter of 10' sporting a bright white but soft central condensation with a false nucleus showing diameter more like a tiny disk rather than a stellar point. At least 2 jets could be seen deep in the central coma with numerous streamers blowing downwind into the tail. The tail itself could be tracked for 2.5 degrees, it was slim as it left the coma and broadened with distance away from the sun until it was at least 10' wide at its northern most girth. A lovely object!