Finally a Four Day Old Moon
I get pretty excited about a few days of good weather. I truly think I have some sort of seasonal affective disorder in regards to weather. I’ve looked it up, it doesn’t seem to be a thing. In my case, it’s astronomy that causes it. Not making light of disorders, I do truly think I am affected by the lack of time behind my scope.
For the last year, I’ve been working on the Lunar Observing Program for the Astronomical League. Needless to say, it’s been a bit frustrating in regards to weather. I’ve needed to observe around a dozen or so craters for the four day old Moon, but haven’t been able because of weather. So last night, I finally saw a four day old Moon from Chattanooga! Woot!
Why a four day old Moon? Because as the shadow falls across the surface of the Moon, different features are quite literally illuminated by the light of the Sun. During the 3-4 day period, craters such as Picard, Langrenus, Vendelinus, or Petavius are highly visible because of light and shadow.
Whether it’s looking at the Moon, planets, or stars, there is just something about the peace I encounter behind the eyepiece. It’s hard for me to describe. Last night, I brought out my camera to catch a few shots both of my telescope and through the telescope. Maybe you can feel some of the good vibes through my photos?!?
If you are up for a challenge, see if you can locate the four craters I mentioned above in my photo of the four day old Moon below.
Here’s some pics I took.
