C/2001 Q4 (NEAT)

Fig. 1: Looking West at 21 h GMT (UT) on May 8 2004. The path of Comet C/2001 Q4 (NEAT) is shown up to June 7. Click the image for an enlargement.

This comet has been observable from the southern hemisphere for several weeks. It should become visible from northern Britain by around May 8. Recent observations indicate that the comet may well reach 2nd magnitude or brighter. Observers using 7x50 binoculars have reported a tail up to 3º in length.

The highly inclined orbit of comet NEAT will mean that it will rise rapidly into our northern skies throughout the second and third weeks of May (Fig. 1).

However, its maximum brightness is expected to be reached between 7 - 11 May, after which it is likely to fade appreciably. The problem for northern observers at this time of year is, of course, twilight. Fortunately the Moon will not intrude significantly until May 22, by which time the comet will have reached a reasonable altitude for observation.

A more detailed report will appear shortly.