[Baa-ebulletin 00542] Venus

[Rick]

BAA electronic bulletin -- http://www.britastro.org/
(c) 2010 British Astronomical Association

VENUS

Venus is now quite well placed for observation in the morning sky, but she seems to be being ignored telescopically by the vast majority of our members. Perhaps conditions in the UK are too extreme at present? The Director would like to have a far greater number of observations to hand for analysis, and he would urge members to make the effort to observe.

At or before 7 am the sky is still dark enough (and the phase ideal) to make a search for the Ashen Light either visually or by imaging. Negative observations will be of value, but not once the sky has become too bright. If the phenomenon is seen or suspected, try hiding the bright crescent with an occulting bar or even placing Venus at the edge of the field, to see whether it still remains visible (and so to avoid the possibility of illusion).

The bright crescent has shown the usual fugitive markings to Mario Frassati, David Gray and the Director. To Gray on November 28, and to the Director on December 3 and 7 the region of the south cusp was considerably brighter than the north. A good series of images has been received from Sadegh Ghomizadeh (Tehran).

Where are all the other observers? A quick visual inspection will not take you very long, and you may be able to make a valuable contribution. Please give all the usual data with your observation.

With Season's greetings,

Richard McKim, Director

2010 December 8