Quote:
Originally Posted by Steffen
I think it is the other way around. New Horizons needs accurate telemetry, and an occultation of a fixed star by the planetoid can go a long way to better aiming the space probe at the space rock.
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That is exactly right. And that is why it so crucial to observe this event - it will provide data for any final adjustments that need to be made to New Horizons as it approaches Pluto.
Dean - I found this out a few years ago and was as astonished as you. I think some of the problem comes from the huge swing between Pluto and Charon, with the barycentre outside the surface of Pluto. Have you seen that animation of them orbiting each other? Huge wobble. This is also part of what makes Pluto so interesting!