Bibcode
Kidger, M. R.
Bibliographical reference
Astronomy and Astrophysics, v.408, p.767-774 (2003)
Advertised on:
9
2003
Journal
Citations
45
Refereed citations
35
Description
Light curves and images of 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko are presented for
the 2002-2003 apparition based on amateur CCD monitoring using a
standardised method to produce consistent photometry in
Johnson-Kron-Cousins system. Multiaperture data shows a large outburst
at perihelion during which dust production increased by a factor of 2 to
give a peak value of Afrho ~350 cm. A similar outburst was seen at the
same epoch of the previous apparition in 1995-96 and probably in
1982-83, suggesting that the light curve is similar at succesive
returns. A considerable change is seen in the slope of the light curve
at r=1.85 AU (T+140 days) corresponding to a second significant increase
in dust production. Overall though the dust production shows a very
steep dependence with heliocentric distance, falling as
r-5.8.