Venus crescent

[Tinderboxsky]

At last, some clear sky allowing me to try for the crescent Venus.

Vixen ED103S at 548mm focal length on Vixen GPD.
ASI585MC
SharpCap > Autostakkert > Registrax.

Reasonably happy with this result - taken in broad daylight with Venus near the Meridian. Would be ideal to have more aperture and focal length. Just trying with what I have available. Hopefully there is another clear day or so before Venus swings close in front of the Sun.

[Averton]

Great day time shot Steve. Really nice thin crescent! Wonder how much thinner it can get and still be able to see it?

[Dave882]

Great shot Steve. I’ve wondered myself the possible advantage if any of shooting Venus in the daytime (poorer seeing) vs late in the afternoon (local heat gradients and atmospheric muck). Either way, you’ve produced a very nice image wel done!

[Tinderboxsky]

Thanks Clare and Peter.

One can get quite a bit closer with a little innovation and care. Check out Mirko's results from New Zealand in this earlier thread:

https://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=196211

This is outstanding and I like his innovative approach to shielding the Sun.

[Tinderboxsky]

Thanks, David.

My western - northwestern horizon is restricted by trees. So I have no other choice when Venus is east of the Sun. I usually try for mid morning sessions. Late enough to give the target some elevation, but not too late to avoid undue buildup in atmospheric disturbance.
I have a nice low eastern horizon, so can try again in the morning twilight when Venus is west of the Sun from late August onwards. Only downside, though, it means an early start. I like the luxury in winter of not getting up until the Sun has risen! :D

[N1]

Nice shot! Glad you're getting results. Similar challenges here with the weather. The conjunction will be wide at almost 8° separation, and happens south the Sun, so Venus should be observable (with some care of course) all the way through.

[Tinderboxsky]

Thanks for the feedback, Mirko.
Hoping to catch the close conjunction, weather permitting.

[John W]

Nice image Steve, esp. considering it was taken in daylight.

Cheers, John W.

[Tinderboxsky]

Thanks, John.

[Averton]

Thanks Steve. We had seen this work by Mirko and we too were very impressed by his approach and outcomes.