Modeling the dynamics of cometary fragments: Application to Comet C/1996 B2 Hyakutake

A tridimensional model for the dynamics of cometary fragments is presented, using a direct integration of the vectorial sum of forces, This model is validated with a complete set of images of Comet C/1996 B2 Hyakutake, between March 22 and April 6, 1996, UT, by making the assumption that the bright condensations visible in the near-nucleus coma were minicomae surrounding nucleus fragments, It is concluded that the observations can be explained with the emission of a major fragment on March 21.4, 1996, UT, accompanied by six minor fragments, The emission of that major fragment followed an increase in the comet's activity by a few days. The main consequences for cometary space missions are discussed. (C) 2000 Academic Press.