Solar Wind Predictions at Comet C/2021 S3

This page shows the solar wind conditions at comet C/2021 S3 over the following days, using the HUXt solar wind model. It is updated daily and will highlight any periods of interest for comet observers, such as increased solar activity or a CME arrival at the comet which could result in a tail disconnection event. We currently have two models which can determine the solar wind conditions at the comet and we would like you to help us test which is more accurate. By observing the comet over this period and sending in your images we can determine which model is performing better.

	Observing Times of Interest for Images (UT)
Model 1	01-03-2024 21:30 – 04-03-2024 04:00
Model 2	01-03-2024 21:30 – 04-03-2024 04:00

Model 1 is showing the comet in a region of fast solar wind. The comet crossed the current sheet on the 29th as well as entering the fast stream so there may be some evidence in the tail left over from this encounter.	Model 2 is also showing the comet in a region of fast solar wind. The comet crossed the current sheet on the 29th as well as entering the fast stream so there may be some evidence in the tail left over from this encounter

Time series of the solar wind conditions at Comet C/2021 S3 over the previous 3 days and the predicted conditions for the following 5 days for both with and without data-assimilation. Times given in UT. Todays date is represented by the black solid line.

There is currently no CMEs heading in the direction of the comet.

For more information or if you would like to provide an image of the comet, please contact s.r.watson@pgr.reading.ac.uk. Please include the time and location the image was taken and if possible the field of view.