Brightness of long-period comets at large heliocentric distances: II. The computer catalogue for 1945-1957

Abstract

AbstractThe paper is a compilation of more than 3500 magnitude estimates of 20 long-period comets observed at the heliocentric distances larger than 2.5 AU with the well determined orbits which passed the perihelion from 1945 to 1957. This is the second part of the catalogue of long-period comets. The first part (covering 1861-1941) was published in the Planet. Space Sci. The compilation is continuing up to date and after finishing it will be a supplement to the short-period CLICC/A catalogue compiled by Kamél and ICQ archive compiled by Greenet al.The list contains dates of observations, apparent brightness of the comets and the types of magnitudes, methods, diameters of objectives and the light-gathering powers of the telescope used, types of instruments, names of observers and references to the original literature as well as the calculated values of the heliocentric and geocentric distances and phase angles. The collected brightness data formed a basis for study systematic corrections among various observers, instruments and methods, for construction of photometric curves, perihelion asymmetry study, calculation of dimensions of cometary nuclei, study of interrelations between dynamical and physical parameters, and many others. The catalogue exists only in computer version and can be obtained from the author by e-mail.