Post by Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe on Mar 20, 2013 12:19:57 GMT -6
Solar Imaging on the 1st day of spring
20 March 2013
20 March 2013
The first day of spring and the Vernal Equinox brought along with it cold temps in the 20's...but clear skies. Time to set up a scope and some shots of the solar face then...
Using the 102mm Celestron Refractor and Full Aperture Baader Solar Filter on the brand new CG5 mount - we start this solar session.
The Nexstar hand controller asked a few questions before we start and stops me from targeting the Sun. Warnings and stuff. I disable the lock-out and proceed....
The mount asks what kinda alignment I desire...I choose a "Quick one" and punch in the Sun....and it slews toward it....getting it right in the FOV of the eyepiece.
Nice.
The two large sunspot groups are revolving toward the farside side and looks like a blank face will be the order for the next few days.
But, we examine the ones we have now...
Good penumbral and faculae details, although the atmospheric conditions are poor. A lot of unacceptable shots from turbulence. But some really good ones when the air steadied...
Sunspot #1695 on the right....looks a hell like the Hypnotoad....
The new CG5 mount worked well for this session and we got some decent solar activity for this first day of spring 2013.
