Lunar Photography
A View of Clavius Crater
A View of Clavius Crater
Clavius is a large crater found on the southern side of the moon, it measures approximately 136 miles across. The crater was named after Christoph Klau (or Christophorus Clavius) a 16th century German mathematician and astronomer.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ASI462MC camera, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in Autostakkert and PixInsight. Image Date: May 29, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ASI462MC camera, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in Autostakkert and PixInsight. Image Date: May 29, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
The Moon - October 24, 2023
The Moon - October 24, 2023
Here is a view of last night's moon, 81% illuminated and currently residing in the constellation Aquarius.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera, best 20% of 500 frames, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, captured using SharpCap Pro v4. Image Date: October 24, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO ASI2600MC camera, best 20% of 500 frames, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, captured using SharpCap Pro v4. Image Date: October 24, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
The Moon in High Contrast - February 4, 2023
Here is a view of last evening’s near full moon in high contrast. This is a four panel mosaic captured using the video capture mode of the ZWO ASIAIR Plus. Each panel was a one minute video processed in Autostakkert software.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 4 x 1-minute video. Image Date: February 4, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Plus, 4 x 1-minute video. Image Date: February 4, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Lunar Halo - March 28, 2023
Lunar Halo - March 28, 2023
This is a lunar halo taken on March 28, 2023 from my backyard in Northeastern Pennsylvania. These halos are formed by ice crystals high in the atmosphere reflecting moonlight.
Tech Specs: Canon 6D, Samyang 14mm Lens, tripod mounted, ISO 1000, 10 second single unguided exposure. Processed in Adobe Lightroom and StarSpikes Pro. Image Date: March 28, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Tech Specs: Canon 6D, Samyang 14mm Lens, tripod mounted, ISO 1000, 10 second single unguided exposure. Processed in Adobe Lightroom and StarSpikes Pro. Image Date: March 28, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Copernicus Crater - May 29, 2023
Copernicus Crater - May 29, 2023
Copernicus – diameter is 96 km, named after the astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. It typifies craters that formed during the Copernican period in that it has a prominent ray system. From Wikipedia: The Copernican Period in the lunar geologic timescale runs from approximately 1.1 billion years ago to the present day. The base of the Copernican period is defined by impact craters that possess bright optically immature ray systems.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ASI462MC camera, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in Autostakkert and PixInsight. Image Date: May 29, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ASI462MC camera, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro pier mounted, ZWO EAF and ASIAir Pro, processed in Autostakkert and PixInsight. Image Date: May 29, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Lunar Eclipse - May 15, 2022
Lunar Eclipse - May 15, 2022
A quick view of the lunar eclipse last evening, clouds rolled in right before totality, bummer. Still grabbed some interesting views with some high level clouds. Tech specs: Canon 6D, Canon 2xIII, Pluto trigger, Canon EF70-200mm f/2.8L USM lens, tripod mounted, ISO 3200, 2 seconds, f/5.6, 400mm. Processed in Adobe Lightroom and Luminar Neo. Image Date: May 15, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Lunar Eclipse - November 8, 2022
Lunar Eclipse - November 8, 2022
This morning's lunar eclipse, too low to get the telescope on it. All images are with a Canon 6D + 200mm lens.
Waxing Gibbous Moon - December 1, 2022
Waxing Gibbous Moon - December 1, 2022
Tonight’s waxing gibbous moon, 66% illuminated.
Tech Specs: Meade LX-90, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO AS071 running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, best 20% of 5000 images, captured with SharpCap Pro. Image Date: December 1, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Tech Specs: Meade LX-90, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO AS071 running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, best 20% of 5000 images, captured with SharpCap Pro. Image Date: December 1, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Rupes Recta on the Moon
Rupes Recta on the Moon
Rupes Recta, a linear fault line, or rille, was casting quite the shadow on March 11, 2022. The name is Latin for straight cliff, although it is more commonly called the Straight Wall. This fault has a length of about 68 miles (110 kilometers). The small (11 miles wide) crater Birt lies just to the west.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI290MC, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, best 20% of 30k frames at full resolution, processed using SharpCap Pro and Registax. Image Date: March 11, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI290MC, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, best 20% of 30k frames at full resolution, processed using SharpCap Pro and Registax. Image Date: March 11, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Occultation of 14 Tauri
Occultation of 14 Tauri
Here is a view of the occultation of the star 14 Tauri that occurred on 5 April 2022 at 00:32 (UT). 14 Tauri has a visual magnitude of 6.14 and can be seen in the lower left section of each image. From Wikipedia, “The term occultation is most frequently used to describe lunar occultations, those relatively frequent occasions when the Moon passes in front of a star during the course of its orbital motion around the Earth.”
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 30 second unguided exposures at -10C, processed using PixInsight and Corel Paintshop Pro. Image Date: April 5, 2022 at 00:32 (UT). Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 30 second unguided exposures at -10C, processed using PixInsight and Corel Paintshop Pro. Image Date: April 5, 2022 at 00:32 (UT). Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
The Moon - May 8, 2022
The Moon - May 8, 2022
A view of last evening's moon 50% illuminated (First Quarter).
Tech Specs: Meade 12" LX-90 telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, Antares Focal Reducer, best 15% of 1000 frames at full resolution, Sharpcap Pro, Autostakkert, Luminar Neo. Image Date: May 8, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Tech Specs: Meade 12" LX-90 telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, Antares Focal Reducer, best 15% of 1000 frames at full resolution, Sharpcap Pro, Autostakkert, Luminar Neo. Image Date: May 8, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
The Moon 49% Full - June 17, 2021
The Moon 49% Full - June 17, 2021
Here is a view of last night’s 49% full moon.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien, ZWO ASI071mc-Pro, Sky Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount pier mounted, best 20% of 1000 frames, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Image date: June 17, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle 4 Zone).
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien, ZWO ASI071mc-Pro, Sky Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount pier mounted, best 20% of 1000 frames, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Image date: June 17, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle 4 Zone).
The Moon - October 19, 2021
The Moon - October 19, 2021
Last night’s nearly full moon.
Tech Specs: Sky Watcher Esprit 120ED, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF. Captured at 3704 x 2462, 578 frames, top 20% stacked and processed. Image Date: October 19, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Tech Specs: Sky Watcher Esprit 120ED, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF. Captured at 3704 x 2462, 578 frames, top 20% stacked and processed. Image Date: October 19, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Partial Lunar Eclipse - November 19, 2021
Partial Lunar Eclipse - November 19, 2021
Last night’s partial lunar eclipse from Weatherly, PA in a higher resolution. What a great show!
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI071, ZWO EAF, and ZWO AAP. Captured using SharpCap Pro, processed in Autostakkert and Registax, best 20% or 500 frames captured at 4944 x 3284. Image date: November 19, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI071, ZWO EAF, and ZWO AAP. Captured using SharpCap Pro, processed in Autostakkert and Registax, best 20% or 500 frames captured at 4944 x 3284. Image date: November 19, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Montes Apenninus - March 22, 2021
Montes Apenninus - March 22, 2021
The Apenninus Mountains are one of my favorite locations to image on the moon. It is also home to our moons tallest mountain, Mons Huygens, which stands 3.4 miles tall! I never get tired of imaging this region, each time trying to get more details.
TECH SPECS: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC, Antares Focal Reducer. Captured using SharpCap v3.2, stacked in Autostakkert (best 15% of 2500 images), sharpened in Registax, final image processed in Corel Paintshop Pro. Image Date: March 22, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4 Zone).
TECH SPECS: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC, Antares Focal Reducer. Captured using SharpCap v3.2, stacked in Autostakkert (best 15% of 2500 images), sharpened in Registax, final image processed in Corel Paintshop Pro. Image Date: March 22, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4 Zone).
Tycho Crater - March 22, 2021
Tycho Crater - March 22, 2021
This is a wide field view of the area around Tycho Crater on Earth's moon. Tycho has a diameter of 53 miles and it is nearly 3 miles deep.
TECH SPECS: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC, Antares Focal Reducer. Captured using SharpCap v3.2, stacked in Autostakkert (best 15% of 2500 images), sharpened in Registax, final image processed in Corel Paintshop Pro. Image Date: March 22, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4 Zone).
TECH SPECS: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC, Antares Focal Reducer. Captured using SharpCap v3.2, stacked in Autostakkert (best 15% of 2500 images), sharpened in Registax, final image processed in Corel Paintshop Pro. Image Date: March 22, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4 Zone).
Venus and 26 Hour Old Moon
Venus and 26 Hour Old Moon
Here is a view of the planet Venus and a young 26 hour old crescent moon in the Western skies last evening (May 12, 2021).
Tech Specs: Canon 6D, Canon EF70-200mm f/2.8L USM lens, Canon 2x III, ISO 320, 1/25, f/5.6, 400mm. Image date: May 12, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Tech Specs: Canon 6D, Canon EF70-200mm f/2.8L USM lens, Canon 2x III, ISO 320, 1/25, f/5.6, 400mm. Image date: May 12, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
98% Full Moon - February 25, 2021
98% Full Moon - February 25, 2021
Here is a quick view of last evening’s 98% full moon. It was so bright last night with the moon reflecting off the snow!
TECH SPECS: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI071mc-Pro, Antares Focal Reducer. Captured using SharpCap v3.2, stacked in Autostakkert (best 20% of 500 images), sharpened in Registax, mosaic in Microsoft ICE, final image in Corel Paintshop Pro. Image Date: February 25, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
TECH SPECS: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI071mc-Pro, Antares Focal Reducer. Captured using SharpCap v3.2, stacked in Autostakkert (best 20% of 500 images), sharpened in Registax, mosaic in Microsoft ICE, final image in Corel Paintshop Pro. Image Date: February 25, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
FLICK Explorer Image of the Day, February 28, 2021.
FLICK Explorer Image of the Day, February 28, 2021.
Bailly Crater on Earth's Moon
I imaged Bailly Crater on February 25, 2021, luckily the illumination provided enough shadow for a decent image. The unstable atmosphere and winds only allowed me to grab about 2000 frames during each run, so the final image is not as crisp as I would like it. From Wikipedia - One of the largest wall-surrounded plains on the moon, almost a "sea" in miniature, extending 150 miles from N. to S., and fully as much from E. to W. Named in honor of Jean Sylvain Bailly; French astronomer (1736-1793).
TECH SPECS: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC, Antares Focal Reducer. Captured using SharpCap v3.2, stacked in Autostakkert (best 20% of 2000 images), sharpened in Registax, final image processed in Corel Paintshop Pro. Image Date: February 25, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
TECH SPECS: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC, Antares Focal Reducer. Captured using SharpCap v3.2, stacked in Autostakkert (best 20% of 2000 images), sharpened in Registax, final image processed in Corel Paintshop Pro. Image Date: February 25, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
The Moon - Match 22, 2021
The Moon - Match 22, 2021
A view of last evening’s 64% illuminated moon from Weatherly, PA.
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI071mc-Pro, Antares Focal Reducer, best 15% of 2,500 frames, unguided. Captured using SharpCap Pro v3.2, sharpened in Registax. Image date: March 22, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4 Zone).
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI071mc-Pro, Antares Focal Reducer, best 15% of 2,500 frames, unguided. Captured using SharpCap Pro v3.2, sharpened in Registax. Image date: March 22, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4 Zone).
The Moon - August 24, 2020
I managed to grab a few frames of last night's moon before the fog settled in. Here is a three panel mosaic of the 41% illuminated waxing crescent moon. Hope you like it!
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, ZWO ASI071mc-Pro, three panels, best 20% of 300 frames, unguided. Captured using SharpCap v3.2, processed in AutoStakkert, stitched in Microsoft Image Composite Editor. Image date: August 24, 2020. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, ZWO ASI071mc-Pro, three panels, best 20% of 300 frames, unguided. Captured using SharpCap v3.2, processed in AutoStakkert, stitched in Microsoft Image Composite Editor. Image date: August 24, 2020. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Selected for FLICKR EXPLORE 8/26/2020 top 500 photos.
Selected for FLICKR EXPLORE 8/26/2020 top 500 photos.
The Moon - August 25, 2020
Last night's moon shining at 52% illumination, three panel mosaic with the Meade 12".
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, ZWO ASI071mc-Pro, three panels, best 20% of 300 frames, unguided. Captured using SharpCap v3.2, processed in AutoStakkert, stitched in Microsoft Image Composite Editor. Image date: August 25, 2020. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, ZWO ASI071mc-Pro, three panels, best 20% of 300 frames, unguided. Captured using SharpCap v3.2, processed in AutoStakkert, stitched in Microsoft Image Composite Editor. Image date: August 25, 2020. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
The Moon - January 21, 2021
Here is a quick capture of tonight's 61% illuminated moon.
Tech Specs: Meade 12" LX90, Antares Focal Reducer, Celestron CGEM-DX Mount, ZWO ASI071mc-Pro camera, best 15% of 1000 images, unguided, processed in Autostakkert and Registax. Image date: January 21, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Meade 12" LX90, Antares Focal Reducer, Celestron CGEM-DX Mount, ZWO ASI071mc-Pro camera, best 15% of 1000 images, unguided, processed in Autostakkert and Registax. Image date: January 21, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
The Moon - March 7, 2020
A view of last evenings waxing gibbous moon, 96% illuminated. This is a six panel mosaic, each panel consisting of the best 25% of 500 images.
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90 (at f/10), ZWO ASI071mc-Pro, unguided. Captured using SharpCap Pro v3.2, stacked in Autostakkert, mosaic pieced together using Microsoft ICE. Image date: March 7, 2020. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90 (at f/10), ZWO ASI071mc-Pro, unguided. Captured using SharpCap Pro v3.2, stacked in Autostakkert, mosaic pieced together using Microsoft ICE. Image date: March 7, 2020. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
The Moon - May 31, 2020
A view of last evening's moon at 72% illumination.
Tech Specs: Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, ZWO ASI071mc-Pro, three image mosaic, best 25% of 250 images, unguided. Captured using SharpCap v3.2. Image date: May 31, 2020. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, ZWO ASI071mc-Pro, three image mosaic, best 25% of 250 images, unguided. Captured using SharpCap v3.2. Image date: May 31, 2020. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Plato Crater
Plato Crater on Earth's Moon. From Wikipedia: Plato is a lava-filled lunar impact crater on the Moon. Its diameter is 101 km. It was named after ancient Greek philosopher Plato. It is located on the northeastern shore of the Mare Imbrium, at the western extremity of the Montes Alpes mountain range.
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, ZWO ASI290MC, best 25% of 10,000 frames, unguided. Captured using SharpCap v3.2, edited with Registax and PixInsight. Image date: May 31, 2020. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, ZWO ASI290MC, best 25% of 10,000 frames, unguided. Captured using SharpCap v3.2, edited with Registax and PixInsight. Image date: May 31, 2020. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tycho and Clavius Craters – December 7, 2019
A view of Tycho and Clavius craters on Earth's Moon on December 7, 2019.
Tech Specs: Sky Watcher 120ED Esprit, Celestron CGEM-DX mount (pier mounted), ZWO ASI290MC, best 15% of 2500 frames, unguided. Captured using SharpCap Pro v3.2 and stacked in AutoStakkert! 3.0.14. Image date: December 7, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Sky Watcher 120ED Esprit, Celestron CGEM-DX mount (pier mounted), ZWO ASI290MC, best 15% of 2500 frames, unguided. Captured using SharpCap Pro v3.2 and stacked in AutoStakkert! 3.0.14. Image date: December 7, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
The Capes of Sinus Iridum - December 7, 2019
Here is a view on Earth’s moon in a region called Sinus Iridum (Bay of Rainbows), there are two capes, or points, named Promontorium Laplace and Promontorium Heraclides. This area has also been called the “jeweled scimitar” because of its resemblance to the scimitar sword (or sabre). If you look close, you can see some “wrinkle ridges” on the flat surface area. These were caused when lava cooled and contracted, they are also referred to as veins.
Tech Specs: Sky Watcher 120ED Esprit, Celestron CGEM-DX mount (pier mounted), ZWO ASI290MC, best 15% of 2500 frames, unguided. Captured using SharpCap Pro v3.2 and stacked in AutoStakkert! 3.0.14. Image date: December 7, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Sky Watcher 120ED Esprit, Celestron CGEM-DX mount (pier mounted), ZWO ASI290MC, best 15% of 2500 frames, unguided. Captured using SharpCap Pro v3.2 and stacked in AutoStakkert! 3.0.14. Image date: December 7, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
The Moon - February 3, 2020
Here is a three panel mosaic of last evening's moon at 69% full. I placed the old Meade 12" LX90 back in service for galaxy season, forgot how much detail this scope provides on lunar shots.
Tech Specs: Meade 12" LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX mount (pier mounted), ZWO ASI071MC-Pro, each panel 500 images at full resolution 4944 x 3284, best 20% of those frames. Captured using SharpCap v3.2 and processed in Autostakkert! 3.0.14. Image date: February 3, 2020. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Meade 12" LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX mount (pier mounted), ZWO ASI071MC-Pro, each panel 500 images at full resolution 4944 x 3284, best 20% of those frames. Captured using SharpCap v3.2 and processed in Autostakkert! 3.0.14. Image date: February 3, 2020. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Sunrise on Moretus Crater
The sun was just lighting the central peaks of Moretus Crater on the night of July 10, 2019.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED Triplet APO Refractor, ZWO ASI290MC, SharpCap Pro v3.2, best 150 of 2000 frames. Image date: 10 July 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory in Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED Triplet APO Refractor, ZWO ASI290MC, SharpCap Pro v3.2, best 150 of 2000 frames. Image date: 10 July 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory in Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tonight's Moon - September 4, 2019
Clouded out where you live? Enjoy this five panel mosaic view of tonight's crescent moon from Pennsylvania.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED Triplet APO Refractor, ZWO ASI290MC, SharpCap Pro v3.2, five panel mosaic, each panel best 15% of 2000 images. Image date: September 4, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED Triplet APO Refractor, ZWO ASI290MC, SharpCap Pro v3.2, five panel mosaic, each panel best 15% of 2000 images. Image date: September 4, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
The Moon – December 7, 2019
Last night’s moon from Weatherly, PA.
Tech Specs: Sky Watcher 120ED Esprit, Celestron CGEM-DX mount (pier mounted), ZWO ASI071MC-Pro, best 15% of 2500 frames, unguided. Captured using SharpCap Pro v3.2 and stacked in AutoStakkert! 3.0.14. Image date: December 7, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Sky Watcher 120ED Esprit, Celestron CGEM-DX mount (pier mounted), ZWO ASI071MC-Pro, best 15% of 2500 frames, unguided. Captured using SharpCap Pro v3.2 and stacked in AutoStakkert! 3.0.14. Image date: December 7, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tycho Crater – March 17, 2019
Tycho Crater – diameter is 86 km and it is about 4.8 km in depth, located in the southern region of the moon. This is my best result to date of imaging this crater. The addition of the Pegasus FocusCube to my Meade 12" LX-90 has really made a difference and has allowed me to do precise focusing without the scope jittering around while turning the focus knob. Looking forward to even better results when capturing 30k+ frames.
Tech Specs: ZWO ASI290MC camera and Meade 12” LX90, best 25% of 10k frames. Software used included Sharpcap Pro v3.1 and AutoStakkert!3. Photographed on March 17, 2019 from the Dark Side Observatory in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, USA.
Tech Specs: ZWO ASI290MC camera and Meade 12” LX90, best 25% of 10k frames. Software used included Sharpcap Pro v3.1 and AutoStakkert!3. Photographed on March 17, 2019 from the Dark Side Observatory in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, USA.
Copernicus Crater - March 17, 2019
Copernicus Crater – diameter is 96 km, named after the astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. It typifies craters that formed during the Copernican period in that it has a prominent ray system. Need many more frames to strengthen the details.
Tech Specs: ZWO ASI290MC camera and Meade 12” LX90, best 25% of 10k frames. Software used included Sharpcap Pro v3.1 and AutoStakkert!3. Photographed on March 17, 2019 from the Dark Side Observatory in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, USA.
Tech Specs: ZWO ASI290MC camera and Meade 12” LX90, best 25% of 10k frames. Software used included Sharpcap Pro v3.1 and AutoStakkert!3. Photographed on March 17, 2019 from the Dark Side Observatory in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, USA.
Schiller Crater - March 17, 2019
A view of the unusual Schiller Crater on the Moon -- The first thing you notice with this crater is the elongated shape, it almost looks like a footprint left on the surface. The crater measures about 179 x 71 kilometers and was formed by at least two impacts. The crater was named for Julius Schiller (c. 1580-1627).
Tech Specs: ZWO ASI290MC camera and Meade 12” LX90, best 25% of 10k frames. Software used included Sharpcap Pro v3.1 and AutoStakkert!3. Photographed on March 17, 2019 from the Dark Side Observatory in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, USA.
Tech Specs: ZWO ASI290MC camera and Meade 12” LX90, best 25% of 10k frames. Software used included Sharpcap Pro v3.1 and AutoStakkert!3. Photographed on March 17, 2019 from the Dark Side Observatory in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, USA.
Clavius Crater – February 16, 2019
Clavius is a large crater found on the southern side of the moon, it measures approximately 136 miles across. The crater was named after Christoph Klau (or Christophorus Clavius) a 16th century German mathematician and astronomer.
Tech Specs: ZWO ASI290MC camera and Meade 12” LX90, best 20% of 5k frames. Software used included Sharpcap Pro v3.1 and AutoStakkert!3. Photographed on February 16, 2019 from the Dark Side Observatory in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, USA.
Tech Specs: ZWO ASI290MC camera and Meade 12” LX90, best 20% of 5k frames. Software used included Sharpcap Pro v3.1 and AutoStakkert!3. Photographed on February 16, 2019 from the Dark Side Observatory in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, USA.
Theophilus Crater
Theophilus Crater – diameter is 100 km and named after the Greek astronomer (c. 412 AD). The rim of Theophilus has a wide, terraced inner surface that shows indications of landslips. The floor of the crater is relatively flat, and it has a large, triple-peaked central crater that climbs to a height of about 2 kilometers above the floor (Wikipedia).
Tech Specs: Meade LX-90 12", ZWO ASI290MC, best 25% of 5k frames, captured using SharpCap Pro v3.1. Image date: March 12, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Meade LX-90 12", ZWO ASI290MC, best 25% of 5k frames, captured using SharpCap Pro v3.1. Image date: March 12, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Aristillus Crater
Aristillus Crater has a diameter of 55 km and a depth of 3.6 km, it was named after the Greek astronomer Aristyllus. In the middle of the crater is a set of three peaks which rise to a height of almost 3000 feet.
Tech Specs: Meade LX-90 12", ZWO ASI290MC, best 25% of 5k frames, captured using SharpCap Pro v3.1. Image date: March 15, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Meade LX-90 12", ZWO ASI290MC, best 25% of 5k frames, captured using SharpCap Pro v3.1. Image date: March 15, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
The Moment Before the Total Eclipse
I like the way this overexposed image came out, this is several minutes before the total eclipse. Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED, Canon 6D, single 4 second exposure at ISO 250, unguided. Image date: January 21, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Schiller Crater - February 16, 2019
A view of the unusual Schiller Crater on the Moon -- The first thing you notice with this crater is the elongated shape, it almost looks like a footprint left on the surface. The crater measures about 179 x 71 kilometers and was formed by at least two impacts. The crater was named for Julius Schiller (c. 1580-1627) who published a star atlas called Coelum Stellatum Christianum which replaced pagan constellations with biblical and Christian figures – it did not gain acceptance….
Tech Specs: Meade 12" LX-90, ZWO ASI290MC, best 20% of 5k frames using SharpCap Pro v3.1. Date: February 16, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Meade 12" LX-90, ZWO ASI290MC, best 20% of 5k frames using SharpCap Pro v3.1. Date: February 16, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tycho Crater – February 16, 2019
Tycho Crater – diameter is 86 km and it is about 4.8 km in depth, located in the southern region of the moon. The crater was named after Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe (1546–1601). From Wikipedia, “The crater is sharply defined, unlike older craters that have been degraded by subsequent impacts. The interior has a high albedo that is prominent when the Sun is overhead, and the crater is surrounded by a distinctive ray system forming long spokes that reach as long as 1,500 kilometers. Sections of these rays can be observed even when Tycho is illuminated only by earthlight.
Tech Specs: ZWO ASI290MC camera and Meade 12” LX90, best 20% of 5k frames. Software used included Sharpcap Pro v3.1 and AutoStakkert!3. Photographed on February 16, 2019 from the Dark Side Observatory in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, USA.
Tech Specs: ZWO ASI290MC camera and Meade 12” LX90, best 20% of 5k frames. Software used included Sharpcap Pro v3.1 and AutoStakkert!3. Photographed on February 16, 2019 from the Dark Side Observatory in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, USA.
The Straight Wall on the Moon – January 14, 2019
Rupes Recta, a linear fault line, or rille, appears as a straight shadow during the first quarter phase of the moon giving it the nickname the Straight Wall. This fault has a length of about 68 miles (110 kilometers). The small (11 miles wide) crater Birt lies just to the west. Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED, ZWO ASI290MC, Televue Powermate 2.5x, SharpCap Pro v3.1. Image date: January 14, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Lunar Eclipse - January 20/21, 2019
Lunar Eclipse from Weatherly, Pennsylvania on January 21, 2019.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED, Canon 6D, single 10 second exposure, unguided. Image date: January 21, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED, Canon 6D, single 10 second exposure, unguided. Image date: January 21, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Meteorite Impact During Eclipse
There was some discussion after the recent total lunar eclipse about a possible meteorite impact occurring. After scrubbing my data, it looks like I captured it around the same time as it was reported. I haven't read anything recent confirming the impact, but thought I would share the images/dates/times so you can check your data.
The Moon - December 18, 2018
Last nights moon, December 18, 2018, 83% illuminated, seven panel mosaic image. Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED Triplet APO Refractor, ZWO ASI290MC, Shaprcap v3.1. Each panel 1500 images and stacking the best 25%. Image date: December 18, 2018. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
The Moon - January 14, 2019
Last evening's waxing gibbous moon shining at 57% illumination. Awaiting the lunar eclipse! Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED Triplet APO Refractor, ASI290MC, SharpCap, four image mosaic. Image date: January 14, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Montes Apenninus - January 14, 2019
The Apenninus Mountains are one of my favorite locations to image on the moon. They offer such a dramatic contrast between the flat "seas" and local craters. When viewed around the first quarter phase, the shadows really add to the effect! Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED, ZWO ASI290MC, Televue Powermate 2.5x, SharpCap Pro v3.1. Image date: January 14, 2019. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
High Contrast View Mare Imbrium and Mare Serenitatis
Here is a high contrast view of Mare Imbrium and Mare Serenitatis on Earth's moon. Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED Triplet APO Refractor, ZWO ASI290MC, best 25% of 5k frames, captured using SharpCap Pro v3.1. Image date: October 18, 2018. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Theophilus Crater
Theophilus Crater – diameter is 100 km and named after the Greek astronomer (c. 412 AD). The rim of Theophilus has a wide, terraced inner surface that shows indications of landslips. The floor of the crater is relatively flat, and it has a large, triple-peaked central crater that climbs to a height of about 2 kilometers above the floor (Wikipedia). Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED Triplet APO Refractor, ZWO ASI290MC, best 25% of 5k frames, captured using SharpCap Pro v3.1. Image date: September 15, 2018. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
North Pole Region
Here is a line of craters near the lunar terminator on October 22, 2018. From left to right it includes Pythagoras, Anaximander, Carpenter and Pascal. Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED Triplet APO Refractor, ZWO ASI290MC, Televue 2.5x Powermate (1.25”), best 25% of 30k frames, captured using SharpCap Pro v3.1. Image date: October 22, 2018. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Last Evening's Moon - July 18, 2018
Here is a four image composite of last evening's moon. Each image was the best 25% of 5,000 frames. Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED Triplet APO Refractor, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO ASI290MC, Televue Powermate 2.5X. Image date: July 18, 2018. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
The Moon - September 15, 2018
Here is a four panel mosaic of the moon taken on September 15, 2018 during a live view event. Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED Triplet APO Refractor, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO ASI290MC, four panels each best 25% of 5k, SharpCap (v3.1). Image date: September 15, 2018. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.
Montes Apenninus - September 18, 2018
The Apenninus Mountains is one of my favorite locations on the moon, probably best view just after the first quarter moon when they are draped in some shadows. Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm ED Triplet APO Refractor, ZWO ASI290MC, best 25% of 5k frames, captured using SharpCap Pro v3.1. Image date: September 18, 2018. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA.