Search

This document is an excerpt from an article in Amateur Astronomy Magazine that explores the advantages of observing the Moon for backyard astronomers. The author, Robert Reeves, highlights the best time to observe the Moon and the optimal viewing conditions. He also discusses the various geologic features on the Moon and the challenges and rewards of observing it through a telescope. Reeves concludes by emphasizing the Moon's significance and the sense of awe it still inspires, particularly for those who remember it as a mysterious place before the Space Age. The article also mentions the role of amateurs in observing and mapping the Moon's surface before spacecraft exploration, as well as the use of binoculars to reveal more detail on the Moon than telescopes can on other planets. It also explains the phases of the Moon and how its surface constantly changes due to lighting conditions caused by the Earth and Moon's orbits. The document concludes by mentioning specific features of the Moon that can be seen with the naked eye, such as the dark lunar maria and the bright ray structure of the Tycho crater. [Extracted from the article]

The article titled "Focus on the Moon" by Robert Reeves discusses the Moon as a target for amateur astronomers. The author emphasizes that observing the Moon through a telescope is both an exercise in cosmic art and a scientific endeavor. Reeves explores the Moon's beauty and its varied geology, providing context and giving the Moon a personality. The article also mentions Robert Reeves' new book, "Exploring the Moon with Robert Reeves," which delves into the science and beauty of the Moon. The book is available for purchase on Amazon. [Extracted from the article]

Gravity, ground magnetics, DC resistivity traversing, and time domain electromagnetic soundings (fixed-loop and in-loop) were conducted to investigate the Okauia Low Temperature Geothermal System near the eastern boundary of the Hauraki Depression in North Island of New Zealand. The gravity study revealed a hidden extension of the Tertiary-age Waiteariki Ignimbrite, underlying plio-Pleistocene alluvium deposits of the Hinuera Formation, which locally host an aquifer of warm geothermal fluids. A 3D magnetic model derived from the ground magnetic measurements helped identify probable paleo-channels within the sedimentary sequence of the Hinuera Formation. These paleo-channels could represent higher permeability at shallow (<50 m) depth, although the exact relationship between the locations of the surface thermal manifestations and identified paleo-channels is still unclear. The results of the resistivity surveys suggest that values less than 25 Ωm are indicative of the presence of warm waters at Okauia. Most warm water occurrences at Okauia take place near the Okauia Fault, particularly at 0 m RL (sea level) elevation. The near-surface extent of the Okauia Low Temperature Geothermal System can be approximated from the results of this study.

The article offers information on Bob Moore, coordinator of the Northeast Astro Imaging Conference (NEAIC), along with his evolution as an astronomer for amateur astronomy; and establishment of several observatories by Moore along with coordination of star parties through astrophotography services.

The article offers information on the Mare Orientale that includes visibility of the Orientale depends on libration angle of its limb; involvement of several astronomers in assessment of the moon's structure such as William Hartmann; and observation of Orientale craters impact over its structure.

The article profiles amateur astronomer Mike Peoples with topics including his interest in astronomy and astrophotography, involvement in the discovery of 24 supernovae as a team member of the Puckett Observatory Supernova Search, and the establishment of his Pocono Mountain Observatory.

The article focuses on the use of the Sky-Watcher 180 millimetre (mm) F/15 Maksutov telescope and the Skyris 236M camera in planetary imaging, such as lunar photography.