Machholz and M45

We were all treated to a spectacular view of Comet Machholz and M45 (Pleiades) tonight. The pair produced a breathtaking view through a pair of binoculars. I made an observation of the pair on January 6, 2005 at 05:30 U.T. using my 7 x 50 binoculars at the time. They were separated by approximately 4.5 degrees at the time of my observation.

I hope that everyone else got a look at this pairing as well.

Regards,
Carlos

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I made another observation of the comet and the Pleiades (M45) on January 7, 2005 at 06:30 U.T. using my 7 x 50 binoculars. Tonight's observation is even better than that made yesterday! My skies were better but I also kept the orientation of the comet and M45 as I viewed them through the binoculars (north to my right and west at my feet). This orientation produces a more natural appearance of the Pleiades, in my opinion. I hope that you like this one as well.

Please enjoy the show tomorrow night!

Carlos

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I was able to obtain a good view of the Comet Machholz (C/2004 Q2) adjacent the Pleiades (M45) on January 8,2005 at 00:30 U.T. using my 7 x 50 binoculars. The comet was very prominent adjacent to the beautiful Pleiades. The separation between the two was approximately 2.5 degrees. I did not detect a tail but I feel that this observation represents all that was visible through my binoculars at the time. The view is looking south with west to my right. I welcome any comments on my observation.

I hope that everyone was able to view the event themselves.

Regards,
Carlos

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