Photographer: John Chumack; John’s Website

Summary Author: John Chumack

The image above shows Comet Wilds (pronounced Vilt) as observed from Yellow Springs, Ohio on the evening of May 5, 2010. Also known as Comet 81/P, Comet Wilds was shining at about 10th magnitude. It’s sporting a nice little tail. This periodic comet is currently cruising through the constellation of Virgo -- about 3 degrees west of the star Iota Virginis on May 5. Comet Wilds was the subject of NASA’s Stardust program.

Photo details: QHY8 CCD single shot color camera; 25 minute exposure (5 x 5 minute subs); homemade 16” Newtonian telescope.