01: Interstellar Comet 2I/Borisov (Part I)

In this first episode of The GEMMA Podcast, I sit down with Gemini North Science Fellow Thomas Seccull and discuss the recent interstellar visitor (C/2019 Q4) also known as 2I/Borisov and the optical spectroscopic program that he has monitoring the comet. We discuss the timeline of how Gemini North initially responded to this target of opportunity, how the discovery of 2I/Borisov has been compared to the discovery of Pluto, the fact that there is a deadly gas emitting from the comet and the interesting history that entails, and finally whether he is optimistic about the future of comet discovery.

Tune in during the following weeks for the next installments in a total of 3 interviews with astronomers who all are studying 2I/Borisov!