[Atmob-discuss] Comet 17P/Holmes

[Mario Motta]

OK, I just uploaded an image of Comet Holmes, about mag 2 visual.
it is on the ATMOB website, wingaersheek gallery. Direct link:

http://www.atmob.org/gallery/showgallery.php?id=43

This is without doubt one of the weirdest things I have ever seen! 
Visually it has a dense central core, with a small fan splaying to the 
west, surrounded by a large shell, looks like 2 concentric shells. Has 
the appearance of a planetary nebula with a bright central star.
I suspect it must have split in at least 2 pieces and must be spewing 
out volatiles. But why, and so far from the sun?? Anyone got real data 
on this thing?

Mario Motta