Mars For First Time

[LukeSkywatcher]

Here is the app. It is online.

Telescope Calculator

All other planets,nebs etc i calculate with it are pretty spot on regarding size.

Just Mars seems to be way off.

[John]

Maybe that software just uses an average apparent diameter for "general illustrative purposes" rather than a precise simulation of the objects real time appearance.

[LukeSkywatcher]

Maybe that software just uses an average apparent diameter for "general illustrative purposes" rather than a precise simulation of the objects real time appearance.

Maybe so, but how can it be so right with every object apart from Mars?

[John]

Maybe so, but how can it be so right with every object apart from Mars?

Of the objects it carries (which don't include Venus and Mercury), Mars is by far the most variable in apparent size. My guess is it's giving an average apparent size at opposition - which could be 20 arc secs for Mars - 2012 is going to be rather a poor one, unfortunately.

[LukeSkywatcher]

Of the objects it carries (which don't include Venus and Mercury), Mars is by far the most variable in apparent size. My guess is it's giving an average apparent size at opposition - which could be 20 arc secs for Mars - 2012 is going to be rather a poor one, unfortunately.

Honestly there is no love lost between myself and Mars over the yrs.

I have tried in with 90mm,130mm and 200mm and it just doesnt seem to get any better..

I'm washing my hands of it.

Even Venus on a bad day is more impressive then Mars.