Superbird A Seen In Colorado 16 Feb 97

Ron Lee (ronlee@pcisys.net)
Sat, 15 Feb 1997 20:16:44 -0700 (MST)

Using the newer elements, the satellite was first seen at
about 02:15.7 UT on 17 Feb 97 (7:15.7 PM MST 16 Feb) (Ut-7).

Was not expecting flashes until 03:00 UT. Was checking
limiting magnitudes when the flashes were noted.  At first
were perhaps magnitude 10.5-11.   Equipment problems were
corrected and the brightest flashes (mag 4-5) were in the 
02:25 UT time period.  

Flashes observed (with some short periods of invisibility
in my 8 " scope) until 03:00 when clouds moved in.

Will reduce data from tape recorder and stop watch and provide
better info ASAP.  Preliminary period is 23.4 seconds.
Secondary flashes were observed during the period of bright
flashes but not later on.

Ron Lee