From
Harold HILL
Cloud? One at the p limb over Phoenicis
L region seems
to bulge slightly beyond the terminator.
This
was not seen one hour earlier.
Whitish
patches along the n coastline of M Sirenum between
the projections
- do not think these are contrast effects
because M Sirenum too pale
Dear Dr Minami,
I trust you received my letter which was sent to you per Air
Mail on July 10. Since then I have continued with my observations of the planet
at every possible opportunity. Handicapped on many mornings by rather poor
seeing, and with Mars being at a low altitude for northern observers there have
been few occasions when the planet has been seen to advantage. I always try to
make 'finished' drawings in colour based upon my observing notes and have Impression
of June: 25, 26, 28 & 29; July: 2, 4, 7, 13, 16, 20, 22, 26 & 27; August 3, 4, 6, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14 & 16 of
these I have selected two made from observations on August 9 & 14 and offer
them for your possible interest as I consider them my best views to date. I
found the surface markings pale in August and was inclined to ascribe this to
partial obscuration (by dust?) and had considerable difficulty in making out
the features of the Solis Lacus region. However, under some very good moments
on Aug 14 both Solis L & Tithonius L came through
splendidly with a suspected Ascrĉus L. It was
noticeable on this occasion that the colouration generally was more distinct
although the planet was more yellowish to the naked eye rather than ruddy. I append
my observing notes for the drawings on a separate sheet and hope that perhaps
you can send me copies of your excellent bulletin to inform me what better
observers -- both visually and instrumentally -- have been recording.
Yours very
sincerely
(
Harold HILL (