Computer Science
Scientific paper
Oct 2011
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2011epsc.conf.1513h&link_type=abstract
EPSC-DPS Joint Meeting 2011, held 2-7 October 2011 in Nantes, France. http://meetings.copernicus.org/epsc-dps2011, p.1513
Computer Science
Scientific paper
We present observations of the reactivation of mainbelt comet (MBC) 238P/Read. Using July and August 2010 data when 238P appeared inactive, we find best-fit IAU phase function parameters of H=19.05±0.05 mag, corresponding to a nucleus radius of rn 0.4 km (assuming an albedo of pR=0.05), and G=-0.03±0.05. Data from September 2010 onward show a clear rise in activity, causing both a change in visible morphology and increasing photometric excesses. By December 2010, the coma dust mass showed indications of reaching a level comparable to 2005, but further observations are needed once 238P again becomes observable in mid-2011 to confirm whether the comet does reach 2005 activity levels, or if a notable decrease in activity strength can be detected. Comet 238P is now the second MBC, after 133P/Elst-Pizarro, observed to exhibit recurrent activity, providing strong corroboration for the conclusion that it is a true comet whose activity is driven by sublimation of volatile ice.
Hsieh Henry H.
Meech Karen Jean
Pittichova Jana
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