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How to Use TheSky6 to Find Comets

TheSky6 is a software application made by Software Bisque that enables you to view the night sky on your computer. Using an engine used by planetariums, TheSky6 employs accurate astronomical data to map a realistic representation of the observable sky. Comets fit within a category of objects called orbitals, which revolve in a specific path such as the Sun and moon do. In order to find comets with TheSky6, you must update your system's data for orbital elements and configure settings for optimal viewing.

Instructions

- 1
  Launch TheSky6, click the "Data" menu and click "Comets and Minor Planets."
- 2
  Click on the "Comet" tab and click "Observable" under the "From the Web" section.
- 3
  Click the check boxes next to the comets you want to observe, click "OK" and click "OK" a second time. This updates the system database with the latest orbital element data for comets.
- 4
  Click on "View" and "Display Explorer." This opens up a new dialogue box.
- 5
  Click on the "Magnitude" box under the "Comets" section and set the magnitude limits you prefer TheSky6 to display. Click "OK" to save the changes.
- 6
  Ensure that the "Common Names" box is checked in the Display Explorer. Close the Display Explorer window by clicking on the "X" button.
- 7
  Click on "View," "Labels" and "Common Names" if there is no check next to it. This makes comets easier to identify and see in TheSky6 viewer.

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