89016A very very bright

From: Michael Waterman (mike.waterman@web-hq.com)
Date: Sun Aug 12 2007 - 20:03:02 EDT

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    89016A = #19822 = Akebono = Exos D
    was accidentally observed by unaided eye mag 3 to 6 at
    range 7000 km on Aug 11 (from 2246 to 2249 UT)
    low in the South (RA = 21h, Dec = -4 to -10 deg)
    
    Previously I have seen it mag 6 to 8 at 940km, which
    is sensible for this satellite.
    
    The obs Aug 11 were only about 10 deg phase angle, so
    possibly the exceptional brightness was from slightly misaligned
    solar panels.
    
    Mike Waterman
    Site Yateley = COSPAR 2115 =  51.3286N  0.7950W  75m (reference OSGB36).
    
    
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