My Astronomy Class - Sketching Luna

[Ad Astra]

Hi Folks,

With new moon coming, we will have waxing moon beginning again next week. Observing the Moon with the naked eye is pleasing, and with a binocular or small telescope, the amount of detail seems staggering. Still, we can make a simple, accurate sketch, keeping in mind that almost every feature we see on Luna is round or elliptical in shape.

Try my clock-method sketching activity next week when the moon is waxing and easily visible in the early evening sky. Extra credit to you if you can later identify major features like the maria from your drawing!

For teachers and Scout Leaders, this is an excellent activity for you. You can practice sketching from a photo or computer image when you are together in a group, and then everyone can try their hand on astronomy night - or independently from the back garden.

Cheers,

Dan

First Sketch of Luna.doc