Comet Machholz and the Pleiades (M45)

Dear Friends,

A quick reminder that this Friday comet Machholz will be less than 2 degrees from the seven sisters (M45, Pleiades) and should make for a wonderful photo opportunity (weather permitting)!

Anthony.

(weather permitting)!

A taster of things to come, if the skies clear!

Taken tonight at 18:39 before it rained, again!
A single 30 second exposure with lens at 120mm f5.6 ISO1600 through the orande glow of Tralee. Did not risk driving out to a dark spot as the clouds always get there first.

Note also the satellite in the top right corner.

Michael Scully, KAC/SAC

Nice Shot Michael! It has become really pronounced tonight compared to the weekend's clear nights.

S.

Michael,
That's a nice shot! Nice detail in the Pleiades also. Good sharp focus.
I took some images this evening also but they aren't as good as that. Biggest problem I have is getting the focus bang on. My images always seem to be a touch too soft. Mind me asking, is that an autofocus or manual focus lens?
Any tips on focusing with an autofocus lenses?
Clear skies,

Michael (JS),
if you were to try the negative technique seen in another photo thread from James Butler on the comet, do you think we might see a hint of a tail in your picture?

Seanie.