British Astronomical Association
OJ287 Observing Campaign
The BAA Variable Star Section is currently running an observing campaign in
conjunction with Dr. Mark Kidger (Instituto de Astrofisica de Canarias), to
observe the predicted 2006 outburst of the suspected recurrent binary Black
Hole candidate OJ+287. The campaign will last until the end of 2006 at
least, and will probably extend well into 2007.
Observers - both visual & CCD - are invited to participate in this
interesting Pro-Am observing project. The observations are being
co-ordinated by Gary Poyner, who will collate and report observations to the
central database set up by Dr. Kidger.
Please contact Gary Poyner at
garypoyner@blueyonder.co.uk for details on how to report observations.
Two web-sites have been set up for the campaign. Dr. Kidger provides some
history of previous campaigns to observe this fascinating object, and
includes interesting information on the physical qualities of OJ+287 at...
http://www.astrosurf.com
The BAAVSS have a light curve of observations, updated at least once per
week, and a link to finder charts at...
http://www.garypoyner.pwp
OJ+287 is currently active - varying slightly around magnitude 14.0, and is
an early morning object in Cancer. The outburst magnitude is expected to be
brighter than the current level. Observers not familiar with Variable Star
work are asked to pay particular attention to the field in which OJ+287
lies. The area is notorious for Minor Planet incursions, which can cause
confusion when attempting to identify the field for the first time.
Roger Pickard
Director VSS
Ref: BAA electronic circular No. 00212