James Helsby wrote:
So, let my try to bring this back to astronomy... anyone been following the 2004-MN4 asteroid story?
Be careful what you wish for. :-) One of the other lists I'm subscribed to is one for those, pro and amateur, who look for and track minor planets. The 2004 MN4 discussion there turned into a flame war that eventually had the moderator stepping in and trying to put out the flames. Turns out 2004 MN4 is to many of them like the Dark Sky Site/Fund is to some of the subscribers here. But, seriously, I was impressed that the media acted so cautiously this time. I think they've figured out that an initial finding of a possible impact is not worth reporting on since a few additional observtions will almost certainly show there is no real threat. Here's to a great year at Saturn, on Titan, Temple 1, Mars and Earth! Patrick