6 replies to this topic

[ClownPants]

Hi everyone, typically when I decide to use my telescope, I drive about a half hour away from the city to low B5 skies since I often observe DSOs. This week, I want to do some lunar observation while the moon is fuller, and I was wondering how much light pollution impacts the detail of the moon. Is it worth driving to my usual spot, or can the moon's details shine through the B7 skies near my home?

[scottinash]

For visually observing the moon, I definitely prefer to have porch lights on, no need to dark adapt the eyes, etc.   When I have attempted to observe from dark locations with no artificial lighting, I find the moon rather blinding and have to resort to polarizing filers.  The moon is a perfect target to observe from light polluted suburban driveways!   

[Napp]

Lunar and planetary observing can actually benefit from light pollution just as both can benefit from observing in twilight.  You want to keep the color receptors of your eyes active because these objects are so bright.  Ambient light around you helps do this.  Some observers in a darker area will periodically look at a dimly lit sheet of white paper.  At home I am limited to observing from my driveway - not good since it's paved so it radiates heat during the night.  However, I hide from a blinding LED streetlight by setting up behind my pickup.  The garage door is lit up and helps me keep my color receptors active.  Do try not to look across pavement or rooftops since both radiate heat and cause turbulence in the air above them.

[PKDfan]

Hi everyone, typically when I decide to use my telescope, I drive about a half hour away from the city to low B5 skies since I often observe DSOs. This week, I want to do some lunar observation while the moon is fuller, and I was wondering how much light pollution impacts the detail of the moon. Is it worth driving to my usual spot, or can the moon's details shine through the B7 skies near my home?

You can stay home for sure ClownPants and follow the advice the top two replies above me offered.

Same for planets or lol the sun.


CSS
Lance

Edited by PKDfan, 05 June 2025 - 05:56 PM.

[Dart106A]

My first thought is to try using a dew/light shield with, and without, and compare the difference. Then again, I'm just a rookie!

 

73, Mark

[Tom Stock]

A full moon is really the worst time to view the moon since there will be no shadow line to show detail.

 

Light pollution won't have any impact. Clouds can sometimes improve the view by acting as a ND filter.

 

The great thing about the moon though is that it's always interesting to look at with almost any telescope, and especially with binoviewers.

Edited by Tom Stock, 05 June 2025 - 07:27 PM.

[NiteGuy]

Bring it on! Light up the whole town! Let's have an official Nation Light Pollution Day...just make sure it coincides with a FULL MOON!

 

Light pollution has no impact on lunar observing. As others have said, it can actually be a plus. Even when observing a crescent moon with "Earthshine", you're typically observing in twilight and that's not a problem (as long as the crescent isn't too thin with twilight too bright).