Plasma tail evolution in Comet P/Halley 1985-1986

Plasma tail phenomena in comet P/Halley from mid-November, 1985 to mid-June, 1986, are examined, using data from the International Halley Watch. The evolution of the plasma tail is discussed, focusing on the turn-on/turn-off of plasma tail activity, and observations of disconnection events. The interaction between the comet tail and the solar wind is considered. Also, predictions are made of the turn-on/turn-off distances and of the association of disconnection events with the proposed solar-wind causes.