National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

Subaru Telescope Captures Clear Image of Comet ISON in the Mid-Infrared Range

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A team of astronomers, led by researcher at Tohoku University, has captured a vivid image of Comet ISON (C/2012 S1) in the mid-infrared wavelength. Using the Cooled Mid-Infrared Camera and Spectrometer (COMICS) mounted on the Subaru Telescope in Hawaii during the mornings of October 19th and 21st (2013), the team was able to seize an image that included the comet’s tail. The image arose mainly from emissions of heated dust particles of the comet and its tail.

Figure
Pseudo-color composite of mid-infrared image of Comet ISON captured by the Subaru Telescope before dawn during the mornings of October 19 and 21, 2013 in Hawaii.

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