Messier


1/250 second exposure, Fuji Super HG V 400 film.
10" f/9 newtonian telescope at prime focus.

The eastern portion of the Moon has a number of interesting features, several of which are displayed in this image. At the bottom of the picture on the eastern edge of Mare Serenitatis, is the large crater Posidonus. To the south, between Mare Tranquillitatis and Mare Crisium is the very bright crater Proclus, One of the brightest craters on the Moon.

Still further to the south, in the middle of Mare Fecunditatis, is a bright pair of craters that are among my favourites. These are Messier and Messier A. They are an interesting pair of craters on either side of a range of hills. Messier A also has a curious pair of parallel rays streaming to the west. Naturally enough, these rays are nicknamed "The Comet!" They make an interesting sight when the Moon is not too full.


0.005 seconds exposure, SBIG ST-8XE CCD and an H-alpha filter.
16" f/10 schmidt-cassegrain telescope with a 2x barlow lens.