First ever lunar sketches

[kerrylewis]

Inspired but the recent StarGazing episode, I thought I'd try my hand at some lunar sketches.

I must stress that these are based on photographs in a moon atlas. Next step will be to try some at the eyepiece

Kerry 

 

[mikeDnight]

That's fantastic Kerry. Practicing from photographs is a great way to get to grips with the varying techniques needed. I find the Moon to be the most difficult subject to draw, as there's too much detail, even in a small scope, and I really struggle to know when to stop before I ruin things. Even simple features soon become an overwhelming challenge at times. I really look forward to your finished sketch based on your sketches at the eyepiece. 👍

[paulastro]

They look great Kerry, I like the style of them.  I'll also look forward to see your drawings from 'life'  🙂.

[kerrylewis]

Thanks for the comments chaps.

At the moment I favour the slightly sketchy approach using pastel pencils rather than a more ‘photographic’ style. But I will try other media and perhaps a smoother, less textured paper. It’s all good fun 😀

[Mike JW]

Hi Kerry,

Your technique will work very well for lunar sketching, and also the paper you are using. I never do a completed sketch at the eyepiece - certainly not in pastel/chalk. I tend to do rough outlines, make notes and may be some detail for those interesting areas. Then re-do it all later. If you are not aware, there is the lunar 100 observing challenge which makes a wonderful sketching challenge and as you read up about the features you can learn up the moon geology/formation.  I certainly enjoyed locating and sketching this 'grand tour' - some are posted within the sketching section.

Have fun,

Mike

[kerrylewis]

Thanks for your comments Mike.

I've not previously been to keen on lunar observations but I have dabbled with the 100. I think sketching may rekindle my interest. Thanks for the suggestion   - I will try the 'grand tour' 

[Mike JW]

Sketching rekindled my lunar observing and combined with the lunar 100 it gave me a focused exploration of the moon. I also tried out various sketching techniques. It was a win all round.

Mike

[Lurcher]

They're perfect!!. You have nothing to worry about. Looking forward to seeing your sketches done with your scope. 👍