Airborne Observations of Comets

Abstract

The application of airborne infrared observational techniques to cometary problems is discussed. Several areas of cometary studies which should benefit from airborne observations were identified. Special attention is given to the 1985 to 1986 apparition of Halley's comet since it is a particularly favorable opportunity to make airborne observations of a comet; however, airborne observations of other comets are also possible and highly desirable. Various types of airborne observations which can be made of comets are enumerated.