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[Centaur]

It’s nearly time for my monthly naked-eye New Moon spotting challenge, which becomes considerably more difficult for observers north of the tropics as we move toward the autumnal equinox. Even the over two-day-old Moon may be tough for North Americans to detect on August 8. Brilliant Venus will serve as a guidepost. More should have luck on the following evening.

My more detailed article describing the waxing crescent Moon’s first appearance of the coming lunar month appears under the links for my preview graphics at www.CurtRenz.com/moon

Photos and descriptions of the young Moon would be welcome additions to this thread. Please include your location, date and time with zone.

Below is a photo of the waxing crescent Moon that I shot from Arlington Heights, Illinois on 2011 AUG 31 at 19:55 CDT while the Moon was aged 2.9 days.

[Centaur]

The Dark Moon will conjunct with the Sun this afternoon. But due to the celestial geometry at this time of year, many will not see their personal New Moon this month until it is Diana's Bow, a three-day-old Moon on Friday evening. Nevertheless, give it a shot on Thursday evening and try to earn the title of Chicagoland's sharpest eyed lunatic.

[Paulie pchris00]

I don't remember when I first saw the Moon this lunation.

[Centaur]

Aug 22, 2013 18:23:21 GMT -6 Paulie pchris00 said:

I don't remember when I first saw the Moon this lunation.

LOL. That's what happens when we get old. ;D

Paulie, I was at the Horner Park star party on Saturday and enjoyed meeting Joe and Patrick in person for the first time. Sorry you couldn't make it.

[Paulie pchris00]

I was committed to an art & astronomy event at Taltree Arboretum. Patrick had asked to to come out, but it was too late to nix the arboretum.

[Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe]

You got pics and a story of your Arboretum session?

[Paulie pchris00]

Aug 23, 2013 0:56:09 GMT -6 Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe said:

You got pics and a story of your Arboretum session?

Yes, sort of. I'll post it when I can find the time.