Observation of Comets

Abstract

Dr. Crommelin in his valuable “Comet Notes,” B.A.A. Journal, March 1922, p. 198, speaking of Reid's comet (1922 a), says “the comet must have been quite well placed for Northern observers last October and November, being of the 9th magnitude.” It seems that Mr. Reid discovered the comet only a short time before it passed out of sight. This incident reminds us of the fact that a considerable number of these objects must escape observation altogether owing to the want of observers. It is remarkable that English astronomers appear hitherto to have taken little interest in cometary work, and that very few comets have been discovered from this country.