Starship Asterisk*

Nitpicker wrote:Is there room for a "moon unit" in astronomy for near misses like these? Say 1 moon unit equals 384,399 km (the semi-major axis of the Moon's orbit). I'm sure (near and dear Miss) Moon Unit Zappa wouldn't mind.

Perhaps a "Lunonomical Unit"?

one more unit of measure to help crash spacecraft on Mars

geckzilla wrote:Did you see this composite image which showed the coma and Mars together?
http://hubblesite.org/newscenter/archiv ... 5/image/a/

Given the immense size of the comet, I am surprised at how unimpressive the view of the comet is from the planet . Explanations of dust storms and impending sunrise taken into account, I still expected more from such a close proximity fly-by.

quigley wrote:

geckzilla wrote:Did you see this composite image which showed the coma and Mars together?
http://hubblesite.org/newscenter/archiv ... 5/image/a/

Given the immense size of the comet, I am surprised at how unimpressive the view of the comet is from the planet . Explanations of dust storms and impending sunrise taken into account, I still expected more from such a close proximity fly-by.

It's also worth noting that none of the instruments at Mars are intended to look at dim objects in the night sky.

Emily posted this today. You all will enjoy it.
http://www.planetary.org/blogs/emily-la ... craft.html