Comet Kohoutek observations from Skylab

Abstract

The original intent of the Skylab observations of comet Kohoutek, as stated by Operation Kohoutek, was to provide (1) long-term viewing, (2) near-perihelion viewing, (3) astronaut response, and (4) payload optimization, allowing Kohoutek to be monitored in the ultraviolet and visible-light ranges regardless of its angular separation from the sun. The preliminary results made available thus far indicate that through its man-aided flexibility and broad range of capabilities Skylab was indeed able to achieve this intent.