Hello Scott,

> Been having this problem for a while now:
>
> Running Guide 8 April 3 2010 version on XP.

I use the same version and have problems with the direct download. I think there
was a thread on this the last month or so.

>
> When I go to update the comet data file (from the "Extras", "Comet/Asteroid
> options", ...), I get a "connection to the server cannot be established" error
> message, a series of little "OK" windows, and then the program dies.
>
> Is anyone else having this problem?
>
> Is there a way to update this file manually by going to a MPC site and saving the
> comet file to the GUIDE8 folder?

The way to go is following: download the "Observable Comets" from this MPC site:
http://www.minorplanetcenter.org/iau/Ephemerides/Soft02.html
Save the file and load it from |Extras|Asteroid/Comet options|Add MPC
comets/asteroids|Add MPC asteroids/comets| within Guide. The last items is the
last row in the popup window.

> Also, since the original MPC asteroid site hasn't been updated since February
> 2010, where can I find up to date Guide-format-ready asteroid files?

The situation for minor planets is nearly the same, only use this link:
http://www.minorplanetcenter.org/iau/MPCORB.html and choose the appropriate file.

> Thanks!
> -Scott Kranz

Clear skies
Bernd

Bernd Brinkmann

Sternwarte Herne, MPC code A18
Herne, Germany

e-mail: info@...
http://www.sternwarte-herne.de