1997 - TAAS's Be-Bop with Hale-Bopp

Be-Bop with Hale-Bopp - March 29, 1997 Be-Bop was a record breaking event with over 13,500 people coming to the Rio Rancho Balloon Park to see the Comet Hale-Bopp. Over 75 telescopes were set up and numerous binoculars were also available.
Lines hundreds of people long to look through the big dobsonians.
Comet Hale-Bopp and crowds.
TAAS member Ruth Pendley and "Dr. Q" from Cool 102 radio station.
Smaller scopes at the event, including the novel "Robbinian" design (homemade by Robbin Pimbley).
Setting up the large dobsonians.
Comet Hale-Bopp and more crowds.
More people in line....
Even more people....
Setting up for the big event before sundown.
Night Seeing Hummer on display from the Air Force Phillips Lab. Infrared cameras look at the crowd and Comet Hale-Bopp.

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