FreeLists / az-observing / [AZ-Observing] Mars Thursday Night

[Jeff Hopkins <phxjeff@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

What a grand night for Mars.

I observed for a few hours tonight using my 6" refractor with 7.5 mm 
eyepiece with #23A red filter and moon filter stacked. This provided 
an excellent view at around 160 power. The best I've seen of Mars so 
far.

Surface details were very distinct. What was most surprising was the 
lack of a polar cap. There were just hints of any polar cap left. 
What a great contrast to a few months ago when the polar cap was very 
prominent and easily seen when surface features could not be seen. 
Syrtis Major was very distinct. I was not set up to try any digital 
images, but I think tonight could have been very productive.

I hope to tray again tomorrow night after the SAC meeting.

Jeff
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                                           Jeff Hopkins
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