Friday, March 2, 2012

APOD 3.7


This is a picture of the comet Garradd with both of its tails being visible. Comets have ice and dust trails, as well as ion tails. The ice and dust comes from the comet itself, while the ion trails are created from the solar wind ejected by the sun. The two are usually both visible, but are not facing in opposite directions. This view is possible because of earth's current intermediate viewing angle. This special angle with the comet allows viewers to see the comet with opposing tails, and notice the subtle hues surrounding both tails. The grains of the ice and dust trail seems yellow because it reflects sunlight achromatically, while the ion trail appears blue from efficient reflection of light by carbon monoxide.

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