Mars this morning March 14 from Melbourne

[John K]

The weather and seeing was really variable this morning in Melbourne but managed to get this shot of Mars which is growing steadily as it nears opposition.

The cloud surrounding Olympus Mons on the Eastern limb is very prominent.

John K.

[pw]

That seems pretty good, the colours and features are well defined.

[strongmanmike]

Yeah that's great, there seems to be more white cloud visible on Mars these days, is this a geological phenomena or are you guys just better at revealing it these days..?

Mike

[dvj]

What a beautiful image. Love that blue in the cloud nearing the limb.

[John K]

Thanks for comments gents,



Mike - I just think that the CCD cameras are more sensitive these days - also depends on how well the blue channel is captured and processed - but the new CCD's are doing a better job on the dreaded Blue channel I feel - keen to also know how good your AG12 scope would be for planetary?? It's the type of scope as an upgrade for me in the future in the form of an AG16.

John K.

[strongmanmike]

Yeah makes sense.

Funny you should ask that about the AG12, Orion Optics themselves have asked me to try this...problem is... I hate change :scared2: :lol: getting everything running schmick is paranoidly protected :lol:...not to mention I am a deep sky imager after all...but perhaps one day I should take the plunge :scared3:

Seriously, while perhaps not the obvious choice, I imagine with a good Barlow (and willingness to rearrange your gear) an AG16 should deliver fine planetary images :thumbsup:

Mike

[John K]

Mike, if I am ever up Canberra way will let you know and if you are willing to try some planetary stuff - vice verse let us know if you are ever down Vic way.

The AG range looks like a great setup.

John K.

[strongmanmike]

Very nice of you to offer John, sure :)...I would like to come to a Victorian star party one day too actually.

Mike

[John Hothersall]

I agree OMons is looking interesting as well as Tharsis region. You can still pick up reasonable detail in variable conditions as you show.

John.

[Clayton]

Lovely result John :)

[PacoYepes]

in this emisferio conditions are not so good, we still have to wait a bit
I congratulate

regards

[U.K.Cowboy]

Lovely image John!

[Star Catcher]

Love the scale, great image John.
Ted