Well Esko Valtaoja's predicted outburst for early 2007 now looks like it won't happen. OJ287 has been fairly active since conjunction, with three well defined flares to magnitude 14.9/15.0 occurring in October, November & December. The October and November flares were followed by two very faint dips to below magnitude 16, and that all important general brightening trend to an early 2007 outburst has not materialised. If Mauri Valtonen's prediction of a Summer 2007 outburst is to be realised, we should expect a slow rise in magnitude over the next few months, towards that September outburst date.

Ninety nine post 2006 Conjunction observations have been received to date. Thanks to those observers who braved the early mornings during the Autumn time. We now need to keep our coverage going to cover any rise during the first part of 2007, and as near to Solar Conjunction as we can. We also continue to have the chance for the XMM satellite to make observations of OJ287 during the coming months.

The OJ287 light curve continues to be updated regularly...

http://www.garypoyner.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/oj_camp.html

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all observers who have contributed to this programme this year, and to hope that you will continue to send in your data in the coming, all important months ahead!

Gary Poyner
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http://www.garypoyner.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/varstars.html