3 replies to this topic

[Mordakyblu]

Last night was my first time using my AT80EDL. I plan to use it observing the Moon and planets. So on Lunar day 5, I spent the night observing Mare Fecunditatis. Specifically the triple crater set of Bilharz, Atwood, and Naohobu. I observed at 50x, using my ES 11 mm 82; at 70x with my Televue 8mm plossel, 93x with my Clave 6mm Plossel; and 116x 4.8 mm Nagler. I also to a look at the near by crater Langenus. 
 

Because I live in Houston, I plan to spend more time observing the Moon and planets. I bought a shorter, light weight telescope for that purpose. Lunar observing is a new phase for me. I bought What’s Hot on the Moon Tonight?, Andrew Plank and Sky and Telescope’s Field Map of the Moon to help me to plan my observing sessions. I’m looking forward to more time with the Moon.

[LunarObserver]

Sounds great!  Mare Fecunditatis is a beautiful area.  Have you seen the monthly (free!) magazine The Lunar Observer?  It is issued here monthly in this forum.  Check out the new one next weekend!  The last one is attached.  What's Hot on the Moon Tonight is a great book.

 

Clear skies,

David Teske

Coordinator, Lunar Topographic Section Studies Program

Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers

 

https://alpo-astrono.../2023/tlo202303

[burb scope]

Consider doing the Astronomical League’s lunar observing program.  I did it with an 80mm refractor.

[Jim Curry]

The 'Virtual Moon Atlas" is my go-to for a digital resource.  This you can have on a laptop or tablet scope-side with filterable lists for things to observe based upon the lunar day of the month.

 

John Moore's book "Craters of the Near Side Moon" is an excellent tome for study before or after your observing session.

 

And when you are totally consumed with all things Moon, "Luna Cognita" by Robert Garfinkle is the ultimate resource.  3 volumes with every imaginable detail.  This must have been a lifetime composition for him.