Hi FAS folks:
There may be a possibility this Saturday to see the comet Panstarr as it begins to move away from the Sun. As Bruce Mellin said in his program last week, this comet could be an outstanding sight with a nice tail, although there continues to be disagreements in the astronomical community about its potential brightness. If it will be visible on Saturday, it will be near the Sun, very low to the horizon, and visible only shortly after sunset. The elevation at the top of Pilot Mountain, and its excellent views to the west, make it the premier site in the Triad to see this event. If you have a pair of binoculars, bring them with you, because that will be the best way to see the comet in the twilight sky.
If we don’t get to see the comet this Saturday, it will become easier to see it next week as it moves further from the sun and climbs higher into the sky. You still need a good western horizon. And don’t wait too long, because it will probably become less bright as it moves further from the sun. You can read daily updates on the comet at the Sky and Telescope web site:
http://www.skyandtelescope.com/observing/home/185665152.html
Steve C.