Why is SpaceWeather.com reporting Elenin is breaking up and using an AMATEUR astronomer as a source?

It would seem to me that taking the word of a professional before they go posting such information might be a good idea, no? The reason I ask is because I follow another amateur astronomer who has a YT channel under the name of "ThePerfectMinds" AKA Francis. He has his head screwed on tight,IMO and says that through his observations through the Gras 9 telescope in Australia that he does not see it breaking up. Not even dimming at this point.


"Comet Elenin (C/2010 X1), widely known for inaccurate reports of its threat to Earth, appears to be breaking apart. Observations by amateur astronomer Michael Mattiazzo of Castlemaine, Australia show a marked dimming and elongation of the comet's nucleus over a ten day period:"



Last Edited by MudMan on 08/31/2011 04:06 PM