The spatial sodium distribution in the coma of comet Hale-Bopp (C/1995 O1)

Long-slit spectra of sodium D-line emission in the coma of comet Hale-Bopp (C/1995 O1) have been obtained on 14 March and 16 April 1997 from the Observatoire de Haute-Provence, France, and the William Herschel Telescope on La Palma, Spain. The spectra show Na spatial profiles within ~ 2.5 10(5) km from the nucleus along and perpendicular to the sun-comet line. In both observing periods secondary maxima are present, indicating spatial structures in the coma sodium distribution. A comparison with the structures seen in the cometary dust continuum is made. A Na production rate of ~ 3 10(24) - 5 10(25) s(-1) could be derived on March 14, 1997, corresponding to less than 0.3% of the normal cosmic abundance ratio Na/O. Based on observations obtained at the William-Herschel-Telescope, La Palma, and the Obs. de Haute-Provence, France