From Donald R BATES
® . . . . . . . .Sent:
Subject: Bates Image
08/08/2003 - Good results
Masami:
Please find my image enclosed from
Overall, Mars seems to have picked up a
slight yellow haze, which has reduced the contrast of the albedo
features. I tried to capture the softer appearance in my image. Comments are
welcomed. I hope you have getting a good view from your side of the world.
My best wishes to all Japanese Mars
observers.
® . . . . . . . .Sent:
Subject: Image
08/23/2003 - Bates
Dear Friends:
I hope the long awaited close approach
of Mars has found you in good health, and with clear, steady skies.
Thunderstorm activity has picked up here lately, with hit or
miss opportunities to image the Red Planet. This morning I was able to
grab a few decent frames, but did not have enough to provide a good SNR. In the
eyepiece, the planet requires a good red filter to reduce glare and increase
contrast. I tried my 3.7" Televue Ranger last
night in addition to the trusty 10" Newt, and was disappointed in how
little detail I could see. Only the SPC was clearly visible. Despite all the
media hype, Mars does not give up its secrets easily despite being 25" in
size. But, of course, that is what makes it such a fun challenge. Best to all
as we enter the "prime time" of Mars observation 2003!
Don BATES (
