Outburst of RS Ophiuchi

Thanks Finbarr, I have observed RS Ophiuchi again tonight at 2307 UT August 9th 2021 with  my 20x100mm binoculars, I estimated it’s visual magnitude at 4.8. It struck me that to me there is a change in colour - the star was initially blue in early outburst, I now saw a pale yellow colour.Keith.

Well done Keith, the patience finally paid off and your rewarded with your a Nova in the international astronomical headlines. A great addition to many previous Irish Amateur astronomers who have been successful with their own discoveries including John Birmingham one of the first nova hunters who in 1866 discovered the recurring T Corona Borealis. 

Ronan Newman

Nice one Keith

Donal

Thanks Ronan & Donal, to be mentioned in such company as John Birmingham is a nice thought.

Latest reports have it at mag 5.4. Will hopefully get a look tonight under clearing skies.

Finbarr.

And so here it is 3½ days after outburst; I would estimate mag 5.3 which is a couple of tenths brighter than the latest AAVSO figures. The GAIA 2 distance is 7380 LY. Also saw two bright Perseids, one of which was ~mag -2 and left a trail for 15 seconds!



Finbarr.