2022-05-06, 12:04 AM
Hi MP Hunters,
The NEO (388945) 2008 TZ3 is predicted to make a close approach in the next few days. ST4v predicts its current brightness as 16.4 magnitude at 0.06 AU in Leo, so it's a large one (160 - 490m). Predicted peak brightness is 16.2 magnitude around May 10 at 2200 EDT at 0.04 AU in Sextans. Since it isn't coming very close the brightness won't spike during the pass. The moon will interfere, unfortunately.
Another NEO, 2012 UX68 will be observable from the southern hemisphere several days later. While it's currently 0.05 AU distant, it's only 22.3 magnitude. It will brighten as it approaches. More about this one later.
Good hunting,
Phil S.
The NEO (388945) 2008 TZ3 is predicted to make a close approach in the next few days. ST4v predicts its current brightness as 16.4 magnitude at 0.06 AU in Leo, so it's a large one (160 - 490m). Predicted peak brightness is 16.2 magnitude around May 10 at 2200 EDT at 0.04 AU in Sextans. Since it isn't coming very close the brightness won't spike during the pass. The moon will interfere, unfortunately.
Another NEO, 2012 UX68 will be observable from the southern hemisphere several days later. While it's currently 0.05 AU distant, it's only 22.3 magnitude. It will brighten as it approaches. More about this one later.
Good hunting,
Phil S.