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CELESTIAL
OBSERVING
With your C4.5 set up, you are ready to use it for celestial observing. This
section covers visual observing of both solar system and deep-sky objects.
Observing the Moon
In the night sky, the Moon is a prime target for your first look because it is
extremely bright and easy to find. Often, it is a temptation to look at the
Moon when it is full. At this time, the face we see is fully illuminated and its
light can be overpowering. In addition, little or no contrast can be seen
during this phase.
One of the best times to observe the Moon is during its partial phases
(around the time of first or third quarter). Long shadows reveal a great
amount of detail on the lunar surface. At low power you will be able to see
all of the lunar disk at one time. Change to higher power (magnification) to
focus in on a smaller area. Keep in mind that if you are not using the clock
drive, the rotation of the Earth will cause the Moon to drift out of your field
of view. You will have to manually adjust the telescope to keep the Moon
centered. This effect is more noticeable at higher power.
If you are using the clock drive and have polar aligned, the Moon will
remain centered. Consult your local newspaper or a current astronomy
magazine to find out when the Moon is visible. Try using filters to increase
contrast and bring out more detail on the lunar surface.
Observing the Planets
Other easy targets in the night sky include the five naked eye planets. You
can see Venus go through its lunar-like phases. Mars can reveal a host of
surface detail and one, if not both, of its polar caps. You will be able to see
the cloud belts of Jupiter and the great Red Spot (if it is visible at the time
you are observing). In addition, you will also be able to see the moons of
Jupiter as they orbit this gas giant. Saturn with its beautiful ring system and
Cassini's division are easily visible at moderate power. All you need to
know is where to look. Most astronomy publications tell where the planets
can be found in the sky each month.
Figure 6-1
This scanned drawing of Jupiter provides a good representation of what
you can expect to see with moderate magnification during good seeing
conditions.
The large, bright cloud belts should be immediately obvious.
Smaller, faint belts become visible with practice and experience.
Celestial Observing
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