Mars Sketch 14 December 2020

Hi All,

Mars is still putting on quite the show. In fact, I could see more detail on the planet this evening than I had during previous observations. For example, the Iapygia quadrangle was clearly seen at 208X with Syrtis Major showing its triangular shape.

In addition, Syrtis Minor, Mare Cimmerium, Hesperia, and parts of Mare Chonium were all visible, but I had to push to 416X. Also, the bright area of Hellas was clearly observed too.

The SPC was very very small and very dim - unlike the NPH. I felt that it had a slightly light bluish hue to it this evening - could this be right though? And speaking of colourful hues. While the planet appeared  more white/yellowish, there was an orange hue to the Eastern limb of the planet. Unfortunately, I couldn't figure out how to add that using GIMP. So, if anyone has any guidance, I'm all ears!

Other details from this evening's session include:

Location: Dundrum, Dublin (Bortle
Seeing: 5Pk
Transparency: 6
Time 19:08 - 19:52 UTC
Instrument: f/5 250mm Newtonian Reflector on a Dobsonian base.
Eyepiece(s): 6mm (66° AFOV), and a 2X Barlow.


Materials used 2B pencil, eraser, an eraser shield, A4 170gsm sketching pad paper. The image was scanned into GIMP where it was colourized, and resized.

Very many thanks for taking the time to read the above post, and as always your comments and feedback are very much welcomed.

Clear skies,

Darren.

Good evening, Darren.

Thank you very much for yet another superb sketch of Mars with you 10" Dobsonian. You truly are having a great time with the Red Planet. Everyone loves Syrtis Major these days. But you have reminded us all those other famous features which you have stated here: Syrtis Minor, Mare Cimmerium, Hesperia, Mare Chronium and Hellas. 416X is to be considered a high magnification. Your seeing condition must have been extremely good.
In regards to the North Polar Hood having a slightly blue hue, that is perfectly fine.

And one last thing, Mars is getting very near to a delightful double star: Zeta Piscium. I have observed quite a few times in recent years. It is effortlessly easy to split even at very low magnifications. Have more fun with Mars, everyone.

Clear skies,

Aubrey. .

Good morning Aubrey, 

Very many thanks for your nice message. You're right: I am having a great time with Mars, I find it a very exciting process of trying to pick out details on the Martian surface.

I must try to keep an eye for that double next time I'm looking at Mars. 

Also, it was great to see you and Valerie over Zoom at the IAS Christmas party. 

Clear skies, 

Darren.