Waiting for Comet McNaught...

[feathers]

I am a newbie..
I saw the start of this comet in NZ last week just after s/set in WSW direction (~238-240 degrees), but since coming back to Melbourne all skies have been rainy (good!)
Can some one advise the best time/direction to see the comet tonight (22/01/2007)...I know it gets later/further south(?) every day. I am located in Hawthorn, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia and we have very clear skies now.

Many thanks,
Heather

[matt]

If you have a clear view it's in the SSW about 20 degrees above the horizon shortly after sunset.

Don't worry about it being hard to see. It's very easy naked eye.

But you will need to wait for the sky to dim a bit after sunset.

It's a bit late now. 9.15-ish onwards is quite good, although the tail can be seen for quite a while after the comet "sets".

[acropolite (Phil)]

In Tasmania from 9:30 until 10:30 is optimum.

[OneOfOne (Trevor)]

Originally Posted by feathers

I am a newbie..
I am located in Hawthorn, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia and we have very clear skies now.

Many thanks,
Heather

You are not far from me. My wife and I went to Brighton last night at the end of North Rd and setup just north of the playground there. Danielsun was also there! If it is clear tonight, we will be there again. There is parking there for about 100 cars so feel free to drop in and have a look...bring a camera and tripod if you want to get some proof! The comet set over the bay so there is very little light pollution and it was brilliant!