C/2014 Q1 (PANSTARRS) spectrum, 18 July 2015

[Rob_K]

Tough one last night because of the proximity of the Moon, lots of interference (one of the full-frame subs attached, eek!).

Nonetheless, it shows a reasonably strong continuum indicative of dust, but also fairly strong diatomic carbon emissions - bit surprised as I thought it might be dustier, bit like C/2011 L4. No real sign of sodium at 589.3 nm. Should do much better tonight as the Moon will have moved on, clear skies allowing.

Also attached is an image cropped at full camera resolution. There is no real gas coma but the high saturation insert shows a rim of green which would account for the Swan band emissions in the spectrum.

Cheers -

[Rob_K]

Cleaner result last night, 19 July, but still difficult & noise is an issue. A fairly dusty comet with peaks of Swan band emissions showing above the continuum. Not as dusty as, say, C/2011 L4 (PANSTARRS), but far dustier than the recent bright gassy comets such as C/2014 Q2 (Lovejoy).

Cheers -

[astroboof (Steve McN)]

Great series of captures Rob, and thanks for the data, makes it more interesting without being over the top.

Not much luck up here- wasn't set up right on the 18th, and cloud and rain otherwise.

Cheers.

[algwat (Alan)]

Great effort again, Rob (DM-HM)....8)

Like the long tail image.

regards, Alan

[Rob_K]

Thanks boof & Al! Back to midwinter here unfortunately, lucky to get a clear spell at just the right time!

Cheers -

[sil (Steve)]

nice, only got some photos on one clear night.

[Terry B]

Well done.
I can't take spectra of it as my western horizon is hidden by trees from my observatory.