ABRIXAS Obs, 14 May 99

Ron Lee (ronlee@pcisys.net)
Thu, 13 May 1999 22:00:39 -0600

Finally had a great (80 degree elevation) pass tonight. Picked up
ABRIXAS at the bowl of the Big Dipper. Had a nice flare as it neared
max elevation.  Shortly thereafter, it faded then increased in magnitude.

Appeared to be another flare in the ESE but clouds prevented absolute
brightness assessment.   Not knowing the physical configuration, I cannot
surmise whether the one...possibly two...flares and one apparent fading
are indicative of a non-stabile satellite.

Pass was at 0345Z and passed east of the zenith on a NW to SE path after
sunset.

Ron Lee
Falcon, CO USA