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                        ROYAL ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

                                COMET AND NOVA SECTION
Bulletin #3                                                      June 18, 1962

     One year ago, the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada launched a national
observing programme; Comets and Novae being one part of it. I am happy to say
that this section has had an excellent start, and I will summarize what has been
done to date.

     During December, 1961, reports started coming in from a few centres. From
these, I learned what different Centres were doing and how we could co-operate.
By February, it was felt that the Comet and Nova section would have enough ma-
terial to have one board in the display at the General Assembly in Edmonton on
May 18-19. Then, with little warning, a bright comet appeared during April----
Comet Seki-Lines. By the end of the month, reports of the comet come in from
Halifax, Hamilton, Montreal, Niagara Falls, and Winnipeg. When I came to prepare
the display, I found that no less than seven boards could fully represent the
Comet and Nova Section.

     Comet and Nova Searches; From December to March, 13 observers made 328
observations of 24 areas. Names, with the number of searches each made are:
Mrs C. L. Bridgen, 47; S. Buntain, 27; F.J. DeKinder, 34; D. Frappier, 5;
G. Gaberty, Jr, 24; J. Low, 53; C. A. McDonald, 10; N. Seville, 13; N. Sylvester,
15; W. A. Warren, 8; V. Williams, 46; Miss I. K. Williamson, 19; Mrs K. Zorgo,
27.  All reports were negative, and most covered stars down to about 6th
magnitude. More search reports have been received since March, but have not
been reported because not all have been received as yet.

     Observations of Ccuets and Novae: Although several comets were visible this
year, only one was bright enough to be widely observed from Canada--- Comet Seki-
Lines. Many observations have been reported, and I understand more reports will
be sent in. Seki-Lines was a bright object with a long tail early in April, 4nd
it could be seen with the naked eye.

     No nova appeared during the past six months that was bright enough to
observe.

     Coming Events:  Comet Humason, 1961e will be visible in binoculars during
the next few months. It is hoped that all Centres will observe it whenever
possible, and send in reports every few weeks. C & N Form #4 gives observing
instructions which may be helpful us a guide. All Centres should have copies of
this form. (See Announcement #4 for ephemeris of Comet Humuson).

            411 Brixton Avenue             Jim Low
            St Lambert, P. Q.              National Co-ordinator,
                                           Comet and Nova Section,
                                           Royal Astronomical Society of Canada