Sungrazing comet observations associated with SOHO

Abstract

The possibilities of SOHO (Solar and Heliospheric Observatory) related observations of sungrazing comets are discussed. Cometary science was previously identified as a secondary goal of two SOHO instruments (LASCO (Large Angle Spectroscopic Coronagraph) and SWAN (Solar Wind Anisotropy)), and it is believed that valuable contributions to this field may be possible by these and other SOHO instruments. It is demonstrated that observations of sungrazing comets should represent only infrequent intrusions to the basic science goals of the SOHO instruments. In fact, the primary contribution of SOHO instruments may be the discovery of sungrazing (and other) comets during nominal Sun pointed operations, and the subsequent rapid notification of ground based observers concerning these targets of opportunity.