Ultraviolet spectroscopy of cometary comae - An update

Abstract

This report provides an update to the reviews of ultraviolet spectroscopy of comets presented by Feldman (1982, 1983). Recent developments are largely related to the use of the International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE), which to date has now observed approximately 20 comets. Distant, dusty comets are considered, taking into account Comet Bowell (1982 I), and Comet Cernis (1983l). Attention is also given to earth-approaching comets, the periodic Comet Encke in 1980 and 1984, and planned ultraviolet observations of P/Halley. It is pointed out that a large number of ultraviolet spectroscopic and imaging programs are planned for the 1985-86 apparition of Comet Halley utilizing encounter spacecraft, satellite and Space Shuttle borne observatories, and suborbital sounding rocket flights.