Greeting from West Palm Beach

During the month of February one occultation presents itself as a possible occultation worthy of a group effort. The occultation I would like to highlight is when (1398) Donnera occults TYC 4916-00772-2 on Saturday, February 25, at 11:32 PM. This is an occultation suitable for a video camcorder effort.

(Click to enlarge image)

This is a Rank 36 event with a 20% probability of success at my location. Currently four stations have been planned. If we doubled the number of observers with a good distribution right and left we would have an excellent opportunity to accurately determine the location, shape and size of this asteroid.

(Click to enlarge image)

It is worth noting that Florida's geography uniquely allows observers in the Palm Beaches to observe this event. It is common that when shadow paths of asteroids cross Florida from east to west that only observers in Florida are in a position to observe the event without significant travel. There are many times when the shadow path extends from Europe across Florida. On other occasions the shadow path of an occultation crosses Florida and then extends across Mexico, or other states in the USA and often up into Canada. However, Florida normally does not share common weather with either Mexico, or states to the north. Thus, observing occultations in our area can always be described as important. Often our weather is better here than it is for other observers. I encourage you to become involved in observing occultations.

(Click to enlarge image)

Note the image above indicates this is an ideal occultation for south Florida observers to rally around. It is, however, primarily a video event. Thus to fully observe this event observers will need a suitable camera and camcorder. Ideally, they should also have a GPS time insertion capability. These are one time purchases. I have a few extra cameras and camcorders. If you would like to try this event and need equipment, please let me know.