February Skies 2007
With Comet Mc Naught blazing into the Southern Hemisphere after a subtle entry from the north, after perihelion, it became a spectacular sight to behold after sunset. Was this a herald of greater things to come in 2007. Should it be, I will die in anticipation of what there is to behold.
My mind reels with images to dream of, the close visual of a NEO, 1999XF11, another naked eye Super Nova, a Kreutz comet passing into/through the sun again, A comet/Neo colliding with the Moon/Jupiter or Saturn?
The year is starting pretty well. Saturn rises after 10 in the evening and is visible all night. It is a spectacular vision, even through a small scope.
There was an eclipse of Venus in the evening sky, and is quite a rare event from South Africa. As far as Planetary eclipses go, we have had the short end of the stick.
Comet Mc Naught is not the only comet discovered by this enterprising astronomer, Bob. He is a member of a professional team searching for NEO’s and PHA’s. He has also discovered nearly 400 asteroids and is the world leader in comets. Although this comet was the brightest for many years and is considered the brightest in more than 100 years, due to light pollution over Gauteng, it was pretty dismal from anywhere in suburbia. It was barely visible from within the Cradle of Human Kind, due to the pollution from Mogale City. Such a pity that such a splendid comet was hidden from the people, by poor lighting legislation.
This image was taken by Gordon Garrad, one of the best astro photographers in the world, by courtesy.
On Saturday Night, the 3rd of March, there is a total eclipse of the moon. I will be having a special evening on astro photography and viewing. There will be experienced astronomers and amateurs on hand to assist you to take your own pictures of the eclipsing moon.
Remember, it will be an all night thing. All you need is enthusiasm and an “off the shelf “ digital camera, to take excellent pictures.
The cost will be R150.00 and booking will be essential as food will be prepared for the evening. Coffee and tea will be available all night.
A 50% deposit is required and can be booked through Hannie @ 011 957 0061 fro arrangements.
As I was swamped at the last astro photography course, please make sure you book early, as I will be limiting the course to about 50 people. It becomes almost impossible to assist all over if there are more persons.
Bring a tripod or your telescope, should you so wish.
We will be doing M42, try the Crab Nebula through scopes, The Orion Area and Barnard’s Loop, Eta Carina and the Magellan Clouds, and obviously, a composite of the eclipsing moon.
What makes this eclipse different is that is is going into the Umbral area. The very dark shadow of the earth.This starts at about 2100 till 0400 the next morning.
Make sure you have batteries and a charger, just in case.
Clear skies to all and may it rain comets on your heads. J
Bill Hollenbach
|
