Astronomy Picture of the Day 9-02-03

Explanation: Is that really another world? Thousands of people the world over lined up last week to see Mars through a telescope as the red planet and Earth passed unusually close together in their orbits around the Sun. Reviews of Mars were mixed, with some people disappointed that Mars still appeared somewhat blurry. Veteran sky gazers appeared somewhat surprised by the popularity of the phenomenon, as it seemed to many that Mars was not very much brighter than it frequently appears, and the event held little promise for real discovery. Most observers, though, appeared quietly pleased to take advantage of a unique opportunity and see such an uncommon sight. Many were awed by the simple enormity of being able to see the face of a completely different world with their own eyes. Pictured above, a youngster peered toward Mars last week at an East Antrim Astronomical Society star party at the Big Collin Picnic Area north of Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK.

Many were awed by the simple enormity of being able to see the face of a completely different world with their own eyes

What about the Moon? Oh, I know; this is different. But the most important thing is that those kids and others may have developed the burning desire to know MORE about the universe...and may their fascination NEVER end!

I encourage all parents whose children show interest in astronomy to take them to a star party (many if not most are kid-friendly) and/or to the local planetarium.

Now for a "been there" opinion:

PLEASE oh PLEASE don't buy the kid one of those Wal-Mart telescopes. I wish those didn't exist; better that children not be discouraged by awful optics and flimsy mounts. It's not that much more to get a decent starter 'scope that will give years of viewing enjoyment.

I know 'cause my parents bought me a "dime store" reflector telescope when I was 6. The thing was impossible to work with for a child; collimating it (even had I had the tools) would have been beyond me. The unit would NOT focus no matter what I tried. (Didn't know about setting screws on the mirror back then). I asked for them to exchange it for a good small refractor; they did so. MUCH better for a kid, especially one so uncoordinated as I.

Here's a pretty good illustration of why Mars oppositions vary so much in distance from Earth.

Enjoy the night sky no matter what's showing!

Thanks.

I'll be changing formats in the future, and moving from a film format to different digital formats. For numerous reasons, the entire field is going that direction as digital imaging technology improves. Looking at some of the results from others, I am anticipating the changes to be dramatic. Hopefully.

Thanks for your continued work producing this thread. I always check it out.

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