Quote:
Originally Posted by Wavytone
Hmm... Disagree - I'd say it is just - and only just - possible if:
- the sun is less than 10 degrees elevation (ie sunset/sunrise), where the limiting magnitude naked eye is -2.5;
- the object happened to be Mars or Jupiter near maximum brightness, as they can exceed -2.5. Venus can be brighter but can't be overhead so that's ruled out.
- the well was exactly at the right latitude corresponding to the declination of these +/- a degree, which suggests close to the equator;
- you were in the well at exactly the right time, ie consult an accurate ephemeris and have an accurate clock.
In conclusion therefore it's extremely unlikely though not totally impossible.
And yes Venus is visible quite easily in broad daylight if you know where to look, this is not all that difficult.
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But when Mars and Jupiter are near or at maximum brightness they are at opposition so they would only be high overhead around midnight. To appear overhead at sunrise/sunset they would need to be around quadrature, appearing significantly fainter.
Also, if venus is directly overhead it should be easy to see regardless of the sun's altitude so it could be seen from the bottom of a well.
Just this afternoon when I was walking outside I looked up and saw venus shining brightly 1/2 hour before sunset. I looked up and to the right and saw Jupiter, much fainter but still easily held in vision. I suspect the factor that made that work was the wispy cloud which gave my eye something to focus on.