Jupiter - the GRS and a shadow transit

[mike.brightmore]

(Tried to post this last night but couldn't)

This planet is hypnotic. I had a long observing list for tonight but have been glued to Jupiter for over 4 hours. I think I've seen more of the GRS this year than any year previously. Could be due to the absence of the SEB or maybe I've just learned how to collimate my scope properly. Usually the spot comes and goes depending on the seeing but tonight it was there all the way across the disc. I also watched Europa sneak up on the big planet and begin its transit at about the same time GRS crossed the meridian (0030 hrs.). As Europa's clear, sharp shadow reached the meridian just below the equator the GRS was disappearing from view. Now the shadow is over three quarters of the way across the planet's disc and I'm having a break. Anyway I'm off to watch the Europa emerge. Mind-blowing when you stop to think just what it is we're watching about 400 million miles away. Just seen Orion for the first time this year - makes me think of winter.

[Talitha]

It's hypnotic and addictive, too. Even when there aren't any transits happening, i still love to sit and just watch the movement of the moons and the rotation of the features.

People used to think i was nutz for staring at the Moon hour after hour as shadows revealed/devoured the landscape. But watching events as they actually happen makes you feel more connected somehow, know what i mean?

[Stefan P]

I also had some stuff I wanted to look at tonight, but Jupiter really is hypnotic. I have never sat and watched it for any length of time before, but tonight I did and clearly saw the movement of the moons around the planet!

Now just waiting 20mins before Io gets eclipsed by the planet - that'll be a real first, and I am rather excited about it!