Dust particles in the anomalous tail of Comet Kohoutek (1973 XII)Intermediate results from theoretical models of the anomalous spikelike dust distribution observed in the tail of Comet Kohoutek using the Skylab white-light coronograph on December 28.996, 1973, are reported. The time evolution is studied using the model of Finson and Probstein (1968) and assuming power-law variation of the dust-production rate and the particle-size distribution. Brightness profiles are calculated and presented graphically for comparison with those derived from the observation photograph: the model predicts a longer duration of the spike phenomenon than was observed. It is shown qualitatively that this discrepancy can be removed by introducing a finite dust-emission velocity (e.g., 1 m/s) into the model.
Document ID
19840064954
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Keller, H. U. (Max-Planck-Inst. fuer Aeronomie Katlenburg-Lindau, Germany)
Richter, K. (Max-Planck-Institut fuer Aeronomie Katlenburg, Germany)
Schmidt, H. U. (Max-Planck-Institut fuer Physik und Astrophysik Garching, Germany)
Hildner, E. (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)