THE ASTRONOMER Electronic Circular No 81 1987 Nov 03 19.49UT. Telecom Gold 72:MAG60138 Ed:Guy M Hurst, 16, Westminster Close, Kempshott Rise, Basingstoke, Hants, RG22 4PP, England. Telephone:(0256)471074.Int:+44256471074 Telex:265871(MONREF G) Quote"72:MAG60138 ATT G.HURST"in FIRST line. ------------------------------------------------------------------- BRIGHT AURORA D.Frydman, currently observing from Helsinki, has telephoned to report that a bright auroral display is currently visible from Finland and may be visible from Scotland/Northern England. Please e-mail any positive results. TAV 1918-04=NEW VAR IN AQL=Q 1987/44 The variable mentioned on E-79 has been designated TAV 1918-04. D.McAdam reports that the variable appears to be the northern component of a wide double. Analysis by the Editor of photos by McAdam has yielded the following preliminary magnitudes: 1983 June 13 11.8 (2 exposures). 1987 Oct 28 10.8 (2 exposures). Hurst confirms that there is a star of magnitude 11.5 which is constant and the variable is north preceding separated by approximately 20". Although Atlas Stellarum and Falkauer may show a blended image, it is possible that the variable is not present on the former, indicating a larger range than at first suggested. A 'B' chart (revision 871031) is available on e-mail request. Guy M Hurst