Coming in Fast and Low

Observing of comet siding spring is starting to heat up around here. Starting next Monday, I'll be observing the comet from the 3.5m APO optical and 3m NASA/IRTF infrared telescopes, taking advantage of the comets closest approach to the earth this month. It will still be a challenging object, though, quite far south and so low on the horizon and at highest altitude near sunset.

Also this week I am working with fellow CIOC'er Jian-Yang Li to finalize our observing plans for the comet when it swings by mars on October 19th. I'm learning it is not easy up keep 4 spacecraft (Kepler and MRO are also observing closely at this time) and 4 PIs happy.

It should all pay off in the end though!

- Casey