Time lapse image of Comet ISON, what looks like snow?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a time lapse image of Comet ISON, specifically focusing on the visual phenomena that resemble snow in the footage. Participants explore the nature of these streaks and dots of light, considering their origins in the context of astrophysical observations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the appearance of what looks like snow in the time lapse, seeking clarification on its nature.
  • Another participant suggests that the "snow" is caused by high energy particles striking the detector.
  • A subsequent reply agrees with the initial suggestion about high energy particles, reinforcing that this explanation seems accurate.
  • Another participant adds that during significant coronal mass ejections (CMEs), the detectors can experience a total whiteout due to the influx of particles.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the explanation that the "snow" is likely due to high energy particles affecting the detector, though the discussion does not explore alternative explanations in depth.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not address the specific mechanisms by which high energy particles interact with the detector or the implications of these interactions for interpreting the data.

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Visiting New Scientist website the following time lapse movie caught my eye, see,

http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn24667#.Upe1pNJwq0I from,

http://www.newscientist.com/

I get the emissions from the sun, the stars, and the comet, but what is in the movie that kind of looks like snow, little various length streaks and flashing dots of light?

Happy Thanksgiving!
 
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I believe the "snow" is from high energy particles striking the detector.
 
Drakkith said:
I believe the "snow" is from high energy particles striking the detector.

Thanks! That sounds right.
 
yup exactly

wait till you see a major CME the detectors on the spacecraft go into total whiteout
when the blast of particles hit them

Dave
 

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