Actually, this is one of the first questions that arises for most novice astronomy enthusiasts. Someone thinks that you can see through a telescope American flag, planets the size of a football, colored nebulae like in photographs from Hubble, etc. If you also think so, then I will immediately disappoint you - the flag is not visible, the planets are the size of peas, galaxies and nebulae are gray colorless spots. The fact is that a telescope is not just a pipe for entertainment and getting “happiness into the brain.” This is a rather complex optical device, with the correct and thoughtful use of which you will receive a lot of pleasant emotions and impressions from viewing space objects. So, what can you see through a telescope?
One of the most important parameters of a telescope is the diameter of the objective (lens or mirror). As a rule, beginners buy inexpensive telescopes with a diameter of 70 to 130 mm - so to speak, to get acquainted with the sky. Of course, the larger the diameter of the telescope lens, the brighter the image will be at the same magnification. For example, if you compare telescopes with a diameter of 100 and 200 mm, then with the same magnification (100x) the image brightness will differ by 4 times. The difference is especially noticeable when observing faint objects - galaxies, nebulae, star clusters. However, it is not uncommon for beginners to immediately purchase a large telescope (250-300 mm), then be amazed at its weight and size. Remember: the best telescope is the one through which you observe more often!
So, what can you see through a telescope? Firstly, the moon. Our space companion is of great interest to both beginners and advanced amateurs. Even a small telescope with a diameter of 60-70 mm will show lunar craters and seas. With a magnification of more than 100x, the moon will not fit into the field of view of the eyepiece at all, that is, only a piece will be visible. As the phases change, the appearance of the lunar landscapes will also change. If you look through a telescope at a young or old moon (narrow crescent), you can see the so-called ashen light - a faint glow dark side of the moon, caused by the reflection of earth's light from the lunar surface.
Also, through a telescope you can see all the planets of the solar system. Mercury in small telescopes will simply look like a star, but in telescopes with a diameter of 100 mm or more you can see the phase of the planet - a tiny crescent. Alas, you can catch Mercury only in certain time— the planet is moving close to the Sun, which makes it difficult to observe
Venus, also known as the morning and evening star, is the brightest object in the sky (after the Sun and Moon). The brightness of Venus can be so high that it can be seen during the day with the naked eye (you just need to know where to look). Even in small telescopes you can see the phase of the planet - it changes from a tiny circle to a large crescent, similar to the moon. By the way, sometimes people, when looking at Venus through a telescope for the first time, think that they are being shown the moon :) Venus has a dense, opaque atmosphere, so you won’t be able to see any details - just a white crescent.
Earth. Oddly enough, the telescope can also be used for ground-based observations. Quite often people buy a telescope both as a space peeper and as a spyglass. Not all types of telescopes are suitable for ground-based observations, namely lens and mirror-lens - they can provide a direct image, while in mirror telescopes of the Newtonian system the image is inverted.
Mars. yes, yes, the same one that is visible every year on August 27 as two moons :) And people fall for this stupid joke year after year, pestering familiar astronomers with questions :) Well, Mars, even in fairly large telescopes, is visible only as a small circle, and even then only during periods of confrontation (once every 2 years). However, with 80-90 mm telescopes it is quite possible to see the darkening on the planet’s disk and the polar cap.
Jupiter - perhaps, it was from this planet that the era of telescopic observations began. Looking through a simple homemade telescope at Jupiter, Galileo Galilei discovered 4 satellites (Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto). Subsequently, this played a huge role in the development of the heliocentric system of the world. In small telescopes you can also see several stripes on the disk of Jupiter - these are cloud belts. The famous Great Red Spot is quite accessible for observation in telescopes with a diameter of 80-90 mm. Sometimes satellites pass in front of the planet's disk, casting their shadows on it. This can also be seen through a telescope.
Jupiter with its moons - approximate view through a small telescope.
Saturn is one of the most beautiful planets, the sight of which simply takes my breath away every time, although I have seen it more than one hundred times. The presence of the ring can be seen already in a small 50-60 mm telescope, but it is best to observe this planet in telescopes with a diameter of 150-200 mm, through which you can easily see the black gap between the rings (Cassini gap), cloud belts and several satellites.
Uranus and Neptune are planets circling far from the other planets; small telescopes only look like stars. Larger telescopes will show tiny bluish-greenish disks without any detail.
Star clusters are observable objects through a telescope of any diameter. Star clusters are divided into two types - globular and open. A globular cluster looks like a round nebulous speck, which, when viewed through an average telescope (from 100-130 mm), begins to crumble into stars. The number of stars in globular clusters is very large and can reach several million. Open clusters are groups of stars, often irregular shape. One of the most famous open clusters visible to the naked eye is the Pleiades in the constellation Taurus.
Star cluster M45 "Pleiades"
Double cluster h and χ Persei.
Approximate view in telescopes from 75..80mm.
Globular cluster M13 in the constellation Hercules - approximate view through a telescope with a diameter of 300 mm
Galaxies. These star islands can be found not only through a telescope, but also through binoculars. It is to find, not to consider. In a telescope, they look like small colorless specks. Starting from a diameter of 90-100 mm, bright galaxies you can see the shape. The exception is the Andromeda Nebula, its shape can be easily seen even with binoculars. Of course, there can be no talk of any spiral arms up to a diameter of 200-250 mm, and even then they are noticeable only in a few galaxies.
Galaxies M81 and M82 in the constellation Ursa Major— approximate view through 20x60 binoculars and telescopes with a diameter of 80-90 mm.
Nebulae. They are clouds of interstellar gas and/or dust illuminated by other stars or stellar remnants. Like galaxies, in a small telescope they are visible as faint spots, but in larger telescopes (from 100-150 mm) you can see the shape and structure of most bright nebulae. One of the brightest nebulae, M42 in the constellation Orion, can be seen even with the naked eye, and a telescope will reveal a complex gas structure that looks like puffs of smoke. Some compact, bright nebulae show color, such as NGC 6210's Turtle Nebula, which appears as a small bluish disk.
Great Orion Nebula (M42)
Approximate view through telescopes with a diameter of 80mm or more.
Planetary nebula M27 "Dumbbell" in the constellation Chanterelle.
Approximate view through telescopes with a diameter of 150...200mm.
Planetary nebula M57 "Ring" in the constellation Lyra.
Approximate view through a telescope with a diameter of 130...150mm.
Double stars. Our Sun is a single star, but many stars in the Universe are double, triple or even quadruple systems, often stars of different masses, sizes and colors. One of the most beautiful double stars is Albireo in the constellation Cygnus. To the naked eye, Albireo looks like a single star, but just look through a telescope and you will see two bright points of different colors - orange and bluish. By the way, all stars in a telescope are visible as points due to the enormous distance. All,
...except for the Sun. I warn you right away - observing the Sun without special protective equipment is very dangerous! Only with a special aperture filter, which must be securely attached to the front of the telescope. No tint films, smoked glass or floppy disks! Take care of your eyes! If all precautions are followed, even with a tiny 50-60 mm telescope you can see sunspots - dark formations on the disk of the sun. These are the places from which they come magnetic lines. Our Sun rotates with a period of about 25 days, so by observing sunspots every day, you can notice the rotation of the Sun.
Comets. From time to time, bright “tailed guests” are visible in the sky, sometimes visible even to the naked eye. In a telescope or binoculars, they are visible in the same way as galaxies with nebulae - small colorless specks. Large, bright comets have a tail and a greenish color.
If after reading this article you still have a desire to purchase a telescope, then I congratulate you, because there is another important step ahead - choosing the right telescope, but more on that in
If you already own a telescope, I recommend reading the article
Clear skies!
>How to observe Mars
Observation of the planet Mars in the sky: how to find and when to observe, the moment of opposition, the orbit of Mars around the Sun, choosing a telescope, surface map and satellites.
To understand how observe Mars and how to find it in the sky, you need to understand a little about the orbit of the planets solar system. The distance between Earth and Mars varies, and sometimes opposition events occur, when it is best to observe Mars through a telescope and take photos of it. Below you will find out when to expect the middle and great opposition of Mars (date and year), how the seasons change on the Red Planet, what kind of telescope you need to buy, what the phases of Mars are, and get general observation tips. Photos of the planet and surface in space will be a nice bonus.
The red planet occupies fourth place from the Sun and is named after the bloody god of war, Mars. It is separated from the Sun by a distance 1.5 times greater than the Earth. And Mars revolves around the Sun in 687 Earth days. The average annual temperature here is -60˚С, and the maximum air temperature does not exceed +10˚С. Two natural satellites orbit around Mars: Deimos and Phobos.
When to observe Mars?
The optimal time for exploring the Red Planet is the periods of its opposition, when it is located at a minimum distance from Globe. Periods of opposition occur with regularity once every 2 years and 50 days. At this time, the apparent angular size of Mars is 13"-14"" with a magnitude of -1.3. The last opposition of Mars occurred on April 9, 2014.
But the moment of true pleasure for astronomers occurs once every 15-17 years. It's about about the Great Opposition of Mars, which will occur in 2018.
The Martian orbit is more elongated than the Earth's. And the Great Oppositions occur at the moment when the planet passes its perihelion. The worst times for observations are when the planet is at aphelion.
Change of seasons on Mars
Like on Earth, the seasons change on Mars, thanks to the inclination of the equator to the orbit, similar to our planet. Seasons on Mars change in much the same way as on Earth.
As on Earth, on Mars, with the onset of summer in the northern hemisphere, winter begins in the southern hemisphere, and vice versa. Summers in the northern hemisphere are long and cold, and winters are short and warm. In the southern hemisphere it is the opposite: summers are short and warm, and winters are long and frosty. Summer in the southern hemisphere coincides with the passage of the planet through perihelion, and in the northern hemisphere through aphelion.
Necessary equipment
If atmospheric conditions are conducive to observation, with a 60mm telescope you will be able to see the small disk of Mars, but all its details will be hidden from you. That is why the optimal tool for studying the Red Planet is considered to be a reflecting telescope from 150 mm and a refractor from 100 mm. But it’s best to stock up on a 250-300 mm Newtonian reflector.
It is better to refrain from purchasing a large amateur telescope with a lens larger than 350 mm, since such equipment is subject to the influence of atmospheric currents, and in addition, they are characterized by long-term thermal stabilization. These giants can only be effective in an extremely calm atmosphere, when the completely cooled instrument reveals a huge amount of detail and color on the planet's surface.
A telescope for exploring Mars must be mounted on a stable mount with a clock mechanism that can keep the planet in the field of view of the eyepiece for a long time.
When observing Mars, it is also important to use color filters, which facilitate a more detailed study of its surface. They also help to consider all sorts of phenomena in the atmosphere.
The red filter increases the contrast between light land regions and dark seas. This is especially noticeable at low magnification and calm atmospheric conditions.
Orange and yellow filters are among the most effective for observing Mars. They qualitatively highlight small details in the red regions of the planet. They also perform well in dark areas, making the picture as stable as possible.
The green filter is used in exploring dark areas near the polar ice caps and is excellent for enhancing the visibility of yellow dust storms. In addition, the filter qualitatively highlights white areas on the red surface of Mars.
The blue filter is designed to highlight the violet areas of the planet, so it is very effective in finding water clouds in the atmosphere of Mars.
The violet filter qualitatively highlights the fogs and clouds that form during the melting of the polar caps.
What can you see with a telescope on Mars?
Mars is both an interesting and extremely difficult planet to observe. It is usually visualized as a small pea without any details on its surface. Of course, an inexperienced astronomer is disappointed not to see the famous continents and polar caps through the lens.
The situation is a little better during periods of opposition, when a high-quality 100 mm refractor provides an impressive view of the melting polar caps. In addition, with the help of such a device you can see the dark outlines of the continents on the surface of the Red Planet. The lens of a 150mm telescope visualizes greenish-gray areas on the Martian disk. Surprisingly, in the 20th century, astronomers mistook them for areas of lush vegetation. Now it is known that it is only dust and rocks that so bizarrely reflect sunlight.
However, we should not forget that exploring Mars brings real pleasure only with large and medium-sized amateur telescopes. Under favorable atmospheric conditions, they make it possible to carefully study the details on the surface of the planet and see changes in its appearance due to changes in weather or seasons.
Traditionally, the period of exploration of Mars begins 40 days before the moment of opposition and ends 40 days after. And this is quite reasonable, since at this time the angular diameter of Mars reaches its maximum. But astronomers who have telescopes with lenses larger than 250 mm at hand can expand the time period of their research: 4 months before and after the moment of opposition. During this period, you can see with your own eyes the most interesting changes, meteorological transformations and the melting of the polar caps. In addition, the phases of Mars are also available for review.
If you regularly sketch the appearance of Mars, you can easily discover the most interesting details on its surface. This way the research is more thoughtful and detailed. Even a schematic representation of the view in the eyepiece will be helpful. They stimulate the researcher and help identify the elements seen.
If you start regularly observing Mars, you will quickly realize how elusive its details are. That is why high-quality focusing of the telescope is so important in this case. But with Mars, the complexity of this task increases tenfold. To achieve success, you need to remember the rule: focusing is carried out along the polar cap, since this is the most contrasting object on the surface of the planet.
Don't expect Mars to reveal all its secrets to you right away. When you begin observing, relax completely. Let your breathing be as smooth and calm as possible. Give your eyes a few minutes to recognize the elements you see. The first thing you will notice is the polar cap. It is easily recognizable due to the high contrast with the surrounding surface: there is a white-bluish area on the orange disk.
Gradually the eye will focus on faded greenish-gray spots - the seas. Whenever possible, point the telescope lens at Mars. Once you have enough experience, you can discover the magical beauty of the Red Planet.
Note that a complete revolution of Mars around its axis takes 1 day 37 minutes of Earth time. That's why if you look at the planet at the same time, you'll see yesterday's surface features appear 37 minutes later. And if you observe Mars every day at the same time for 6 weeks, you can trace the complete axial rotation of the Red Planet.
What to see on Mars
Polar caps
The most contrasting elements on the surface of Mars are the polar caps. Any astronomy lover can observe them. The appearance of the polar ice caps varies from season to season. For example, in the spring and summer, the caps actively melt. Their boundaries are gradually moving closer to the poles. And your task is to track these processes.
The southern polar cap is perfectly visualized even with an amateur telescope during periods of opposition when Mars enters perihelion. In the spring-summer season, the southern cap quickly changes size and shape. At this time, you can see the moment when the hat literally splits into two halves. The reason for this is the slow melting of snow at the top of the Mitchell Mountain Range. Thaws and cracks are often visualized on the southern edge of the cap.
The northern polar cap does not please astronomers with such obvious seasonal changes. Even in summer it does not disappear, intriguing the observer with the unpredictability of its behavior. As soon as autumn sets in on Mars, fog appears in the northern hemisphere, forming in the polar region. At the same time, the melting of the northern cap stops, and it begins to gradually grow. Sometimes fog can appear in the spring.
Martian seas and seasonal changes
The change of seasons in the appearance of the Martian surface also affects the dark zones called seas. Typically, these transformations begin in the middle of Libra and continue until the polar cap disappears. At this time, the dark region fills the entire area between the equator and the polar region. In the spring-summer period, the gray seas noticeably darken and change their size and shape. To notice all these changes, you need to know the topography of Mars in detail.
Seasonal changes most affect such areas of the planet as the Gulf of Pearl (Margaritifer Sinus), Greater Syrtis (Syrtis Major), Pandora Strait (Pandorae Fretum), Lake of the Sun (Solis Lacus). All these locations are demonstrated by a large-scale map of Mars.
Map of the surface of Mars. Click on the image to enlarge it
Atmosphere of Mars and phenomena
The appearance of white fog, white and bluish clouds on Mars is also associated with seasonal transformations. They usually form in the spring months and disappear without a trace by winter. It is assumed that the melting of the polar caps plays a role here.
It is possible to distinguish fog and clouds from other elements only if you have sufficient knowledge of the cartography of Mars, its appearance and solid observation experience. Clouds can be identified by changes in the shape and size of the seas as clouds pass over them. Color filters green No. 58, blue No. 38, 38A, 80A will help to significantly facilitate this task.
Fogs and clouds can persist over the surface of Mars for quite a long time: up to one Earth day.
Dust storms and yellow clouds are atmospheric phenomena that can be studied through an amateur telescope. They usually form on a planet at the time of its perihelion passage. Then the southern hemisphere experiences summer opposition.
The reason for the appearance of dust storms and yellow clouds is solar activity, which causes the formation of strong wind currents. These phenomena appear suddenly and cover a large area within a short time. They often hide entire seas and continents from observation. You can use orange or yellow filters to increase contrast.
Observation of Phobos and Deimos
Not every amateur astronomer can observe satellites of Mars, since Deimos and Phobos are like elusive ghosts. But there are a few simple tricks that will help you study the moons of Mars, even through an amateur telescope.
Firstly, it is better to carry out observations during the period of opposition of Mars, because the close location of Mars to the Earth makes its satellites brighter. At this time, Deimos has a magnitude of 12, and Phobos has a magnitude of 11. They can also be viewed with a 4-5 inch telescope. Of course, the picture is spoiled by the bright shine of Mars. This is especially true for Phobos, whose orbit is located in close proximity to Mars.
Experienced researchers know that it is possible to fix a dim object near a bright star by removing the latter from the field of view. Apply this technique when studying Phobos and Deimos. In this case, it is better to use an eyepiece with a narrow field of view. The best option would be an orthoscopic eyepiece. Pre-calculate the time when the moons will move away from Mars at their maximum possible distance. This can be done using computer programs SkyTools 3 or Guide 9.0.
At a predetermined time, point the optical tube at Mars and slowly move it out of view. So its glow will not interfere with observations. Once you are able to study Phobos and Deimos, try to bring the planet back into the lens field. You may still be able to see the satellites. If not, then admire the beautiful photo of Mars, obtained by non-professional astronomers.
Brief information
The fourth planet from the Sun, named after the god of war, Mars. Mars is 1.5 times farther from the Sun than Earth. Mars completes one revolution around the Sun in 687 Earth days. The average annual temperature of the planet is –60°C, and the maximum temperature does not exceed several degrees above zero. Mars has two natural satellites - Phobos and Deimos.
When to observe Mars?
The best time to observe Mars is during its opposition, when the planet is at its minimum distance from Earth. Oppositions of Mars are repeated at intervals of 2 years and 50 days. These days, the apparent angular size of the planet is 13"-14" and its magnitude is approximately -1.3. The closest oppositions of Mars will occur on May 22, 2016 and July 26, 2018.
However, a real holiday for the observer comes once every 15–17 years, during the so-called great opposition, when the apparent size of the planet reaches 25 "". Unfortunately, the next great opposition of Mars will have to wait quite a long time, since it will not happen until 2018.
Comparative size of Mars during the period of great opposition, opposition, and smallest apparent size (conjunction with the Sun).
Mars has a more elongated orbit than Earth. As you can see in the figure below, the great oppositions occur when Mars is passing its perihelion, and the most unfavorable from an observational point of view are when the planet is near aphelion.
Change of seasons on Mars
Like on Earth, Mars experiences a change of seasons, and due to the similar inclination of the equator to the orbit of our planet, the seasons on Mars change in much the same way as on Earth.
As on Earth, on Mars, with the onset of summer in the northern hemisphere, winter begins in the southern hemisphere, and vice versa. Summers in the northern hemisphere are long and cold, and winters are short and warm. In the southern hemisphere it is the opposite: summers are short and warm, and winters are long and frosty. Summer in the southern hemisphere coincides with the passage of the planet through perihelion, and in the northern hemisphere through aphelion.
Necessary equipment
Under favorable conditions, the tiny disk of Mars can be seen already in a 60-mm telescope, but it is not possible to talk about any details on the surface of the planet when observing with such an instrument. Perhaps, the minimum telescope that will be needed to observe Mars can be considered a 150 mm reflector or a 100 mm refractor, and the most optimal in terms of price, weight, size and capabilities is a 250–300 mm Newtonian system reflector.
Large amateur telescopes (from 350 mm) are highly susceptible to the influence of atmospheric currents and have a considerable thermal stabilization time, therefore, as a rule, they are not recommended for planetary observations. However, these giants should not be discounted. In the rare moments when it is possible to capture a calm atmosphere, a well-cooled telescope can reveal an astonishing amount of detail on the surface of the Red Planet. Plus, large telescopes more clearly show the shades of colors on the surface of the planet.
It is highly desirable that your telescope be equipped with a stable mount with a clock mechanism that can keep the planet in the field of view of the eyepiece for a long time.
When observing Mars, it is difficult to overestimate the importance of using color filters, which help to examine surface elements in more detail, as well as see atmospheric phenomena that may go unnoticed without a filter. 
If you decide to get serious about observing Mars, then your collection should include the following color filters:
Red- significantly improves the contrast between dark areas (seas) and light areas (land). The effect of the filter is best seen in a calm atmosphere and low magnification.
Yellow And orange- some of the most useful, if not the most useful filters for observing Mars. They highlight the red areas of the planet and highlight small details in them. They work well in dark areas and also make the image more stable.
Green- used when observing dark zones around the polar caps, highlights well dust storms having a yellow tint. The filter will also be useful for highlighting white areas on a red surface.
Blue- highlights areas of the surface that have a purple tint. Very useful for detecting water clouds in upper layers atmosphere.
Violet- highlights clouds and fogs formed when the polar caps melt.
Observations of Mars
What can you see on Mars through a telescope?
Mars is a very interesting, but at the same time difficult planet to observe. Usually, most At the time, it appears as a small “pea” without any obvious details on the surface. Of course, a novice observer, pointing his small telescope at Mars, remains disappointed, since he cannot see the legendary polar caps and continents.
Things are somewhat better during oppositions (especially great ones), when a good 100-mm refractor allows you to follow the melting of the polar caps, as well as see the dark outlines of continents on the surface of the planet. At 150 millimeters, gray-green areas on the disk of Mars become noticeable, which astronomers in the last century mistook for vegetation. Now we know that these are just rocks and dust, reflecting light in such a bizarre way.
But it’s still worth remembering that observations of Mars are truly interesting only through medium and large amateur telescopes, which, under favorable conditions, allow you to see all the main details of the planet’s surface, as well as observe amazing changes in its appearance caused by changes in seasons and weather.
General tips for observing Mars
Typically, the recommended period for observing Mars begins 40 days before opposition and ends 40 days after. This recommendation is not without meaning. It is on these days that the angular size of the planet is maximum. However, owners of telescopes with a lens of 250 mm and above can quite successfully begin observations 3–4 months before the opposition and another 3–4 months after its end. Thus, the total duration of observation of the planet will be more than 6 months. During this period, one can follow very interesting changes - the melting of the polar caps and meteorological phenomena.
Systematic sketching of its appearance through a telescope greatly helps to distinguish details on the planet’s disk. This is explained by a more detailed and thoughtful examination of the planet, since making a sketch implies the most accurate representation of what is visible in the eyepiece. But even schematic sketches are useful. They also stimulate the observer and help him later, in the comfort of his own home, to identify what he saw.
Once you start observing Mars regularly, you'll realize that surface features are subtle, making it especially important to focus your telescope very precisely. With Mars this, it would seem, simple task turns into a real test. Remember a simple rule - it is best to focus the telescope on the polar cap as the most contrasting object.
Don't expect to see Mars in every detail immediately. When starting your observations, relax and breathe evenly. Give your vision a few minutes to recognize what you see. The first thing that will catch your eye is the polar cap. It is quite easy to guess, as it contrasts with the surrounding background - white and blue on a relatively uniform orange disk. After a while, the seas will begin to appear, like dull gray-green spots. Try not to miss observations and look at Mars whenever possible. With experience, you will discover many amazing things on the surface of the Red Planet.
A specially prepared map of Mars will help you recognize all the main formations accessible to amateur telescopes.
Please note that Mars takes 37 minutes longer to complete a revolution on its axis than Earth. Therefore, if you look at the planet again at the same time 24 hours later, the surface features you saw yesterday will appear 37 minutes later than the day before. Daily observations of Mars at a fixed time make it possible to monitor the complete axial rotation of the planet within 5–6 weeks.
What to see on Mars
Polar caps
The most noticeable features of the Martian surface are the polar caps. Every amateur astronomer can observe them.
Along with the change of seasons, changes occur in the appearance of the polar ice caps. Thus, with the onset of the spring-summer period, the cap melts in the corresponding hemisphere. Its borders are slowly retreating towards the pole. The observer's task is to follow this process.
South polar cap quite large and visible in modest amateur telescopes during oppositions when Mars is at perihelion. During the warm season, the southern cap significantly changes its shape and size. During the Martian spring, you can see how the cap splits in two. This is caused by the slower melting of snow at the top of the Mitchell Mountains.
At the southern border of the cap you can often notice cracks and clearings.
Drawings by English astronomer Patrick Moore show a seasonal decrease in the northern polar cap of Mars. From left to right, top to bottom: November 19, 1960, December 25, 1960, January 11, 1961, February 6, 1961
North polar cap is not subject to such drastic seasonal changes as the southern one. Even during summer it does not disappear completely. It is impossible to predict the behavior of the northern cap in advance, and this makes its observations intriguing.
As autumn approaches in the northern hemisphere, fog often appears over the polar region. Interestingly, with the advent of fog, the northern cap often stops melting for a while and begins to increase in size. A sudden appearance of fog is also observed at the end of spring.
Martian seas and seasonal changes
Changes in appearance associated with the change of seasons on Mars undergo not only the polar caps, but also dark areas of the surface, which are traditionally called seas. As a rule, changes manifest themselves in darkening of areas of the surface. The initial phase of this phenomenon occurs in the middle of the Martian spring, and it lasts almost until the polar cap completely disappears. The darkening extends from the polar region to the equator and is more noticeable during periods of those oppositions that occur as the planet passes perihelion.
Gray-green seas not only darken during the spring-summer period, but also increase or decrease in size and also change their shape. Of course, to capture such changes, you have to have a good understanding of Martian topography.
The following areas of Mars are most susceptible to seasonal changes: Pandora Strait (Pandorae Fretum), Syrtis Major (Syrtis Major), Sun Lake (Solis Lacus), Pearl Bay (Margaritifer Sinus).
Atmospheric phenomena
Seasonal changes on Mars are presumably associated with the appearance of blue and white And white clouds, as well as white fogs. They appear in the Martian spring and disappear in the fall. It is likely that the melting of the polar caps has a direct influence on the formation of clouds.
To distinguish clouds and fog from other surface features, you need to have a good understanding of the cartography of Mars. Therefore, it is recommended to carry out this kind of observation with solid experience in contemplating the Red Planet and knowledge of its appearance. Clouds can be detected by changes in the outlines of the seas (when clouds pass over them) and as light spots over the continents.
Colored filters can provide significant assistance in highlighting clouds and fog by emphasizing their shape and increasing contrast. To highlight clouds, it is recommended to have the following filters: No. 58 (green), No. 80A, No. 38 and No. 38A (blue).
Clouds and fog can linger over the Martian surface for several hours or even a whole day.
Yellow clouds And dust storms- another type of atmospheric phenomena that can be observed using amateur telescopes. Typically, yellow clouds and dust storms appear on Mars during perihelion, when the summer solstice occurs in the southern hemisphere. 
Their appearance is caused by the heating of the surface of Mars by the sun's rays, which leads to the formation of strong winds in its atmosphere. Yellow clouds and dust storms can form suddenly and spread quickly. It is not uncommon for dust storms to spread across the entire hemisphere and hide the outlines of continents and seas.
Observation of Phobos and Deimos
Few astronomy lovers can boast that they have visually observed the satellites of Mars. Unlike Jupiter's four brightest moons, Phobos And Deimos- subtle ghosts. However, using simple techniques, you can try to view the satellites of Mars using modest amateur telescopes.
Firstly, observations of Phobos and Deimos should be carried out during periods close to the opposition of Mars, and especially the great one. This is logical: the closer Mars is to Earth, the closer its satellites are, which means they are brighter and easier to see. On such days, Phobos and Deimos have a magnitude of about 11th and 12th magnitude, respectively. It is believed that objects with such brightness can be easily seen in a 4-5-inch telescope. However, not all so simple. The bright light of the planet makes it difficult to see the two small “stars”. Additionally, the brighter Phobos is harder to see because its orbit is closer to Mars than Deimos.
An experienced observer of galaxies and double stars knows that it is much easier to see a dim object located near a bright star if you move the bright interference out of the field of view. The same should be done when searching for Phobos and Deimos.
To do this, use an eyepiece with a narrow field of view. An orthoscopic eyepiece is best suited for this purpose. Then determine in advance the time when the satellites will be at their maximum distance from the planet (in eastern or western elongation). Such information can be obtained using programs such as Guide 9.0 and SkyTools 3.
At the right time, point the telescope at Mars and carefully remove it from the field of view, so that its bright light does not interfere with the observation of the satellite of interest to us. After you manage to make out Phobos and/or Deimos, try to bring the planet back into view. It is possible that now you will be able to see the planet and its satellites without additional tricks.
Additional Information
Roman is the founder and chief editor of the site,
where he writes about practical amateur astronomy and gives advice to beginners
on and leads .
Roman also founded the R-Sky company to produce equipment necessary for every astronomy enthusiast.
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Actually, this is one of the first questions that arises for most novice astronomy enthusiasts.
Some people think you can see the American flag through a telescope,
planets the size of footballs, colored nebulae like
photographs from Hubble, etc. If you also think so, then I will immediately
I'm disappointed - the flag is not visible, the planets are the size of a pea, galaxies and nebulae -
gray colorless spots. The fact is that a telescope is not just a tube
for entertainment and getting “happiness in the brain.” It's quite complicated
optical device, with the correct and thoughtful use of which you
get a lot of pleasant emotions and impressions from watching space
objects.
Approximate view of the Moon through a telescope with high magnification.
One of the most important parameters of a telescope is the diameter of the lens.
(lenses or mirrors). As a rule, beginners buy inexpensive telescopes
with a diameter of 70 to 130 mm - so to speak, for getting to know the sky.
Of course, the larger the diameter of the telescope lens, the brighter it will be.
image with the same magnification. For example, if you compare telescopes
with a diameter of 100 and 200 mm, then at the same magnification (100x) brightness
The images will differ by 4 times. The difference is especially noticeable when
observation of faint objects - galaxies, nebulae, star clusters.
However, it is not uncommon for beginners to immediately acquire a large
telescope (250-300 mm), then marveling at its weight and size. Remember:
The best telescope is the one through which you observe more often!
So, what can you see through a telescope? Firstly, the moon. Our space
the companion is of great interest to both beginners and
advanced amateurs. Even a small telescope with a diameter of 60-70 mm
will show lunar craters and seas. At a magnification of more than 100x, the moon is not visible at all.
will fit into the field of view of the eyepiece, that is, only a piece will be visible.
As the phases change, the appearance of the lunar landscapes will also change. If
look through a telescope at a young or old moon (narrow crescent), then you can
see the so-called ashen light - a faint glow of the dark side
of the moon, caused by the reflection of earth's light from the lunar surface.
Venus through an amateur telescope
Also, through a telescope you can see all the planets of the solar system.
Mercury will look just like a star in small telescopes, but in
telescopes with a diameter of 100 mm can notice the phase of the planet - tiny
sickle. Alas, you can only catch Mercury at certain times - planet
is moving not far from the Sun, which makes it difficult to observe
Venus - also known as the morning and evening star - is the brightest object in the sky
(after the Sun and Moon). The brightness of Venus can be so high that it
can be seen with the naked eye during the day (you just need to know where
look). Even with small telescopes you can see the phase of the planet -
it changes from a tiny circle to a large sickle like
lunar. By the way, sometimes people, looking at Venus through a telescope for the first time,
Do they think that they are being shown the moon???? Venus has a dense
opaque atmosphere, so you won’t be able to see any details -
just a white sickle.
View of Mars through an amateur telescope with a diameter of 150 mm.
Earth. Oddly enough, the telescope can also be used to
ground observations. Quite often people buy a telescope both in
both as a space peeper and as a telescope. For ground
Not all types of telescopes are suitable for observations, namely lens and
mirror-lens - they can provide a direct image while
as in reflecting telescopes of the Newtonian system, the image is inverted.
Mars. yes, yes, the same one that is visible every year on August 27th as two moons
???? And people fall for this stupid joke year after year, hammering
questions from fellow astronomers???? Well, Mars is even quite
large telescopes are visible only as a small circle, and even then only in
period of confrontations (every 2 years). However, in 80-90 mm telescopes
It is quite possible to see the darkening on the planet’s disk and the polar cap.
Jupiter with its moons - approximate view through a small telescope.
Jupiter - perhaps it was from this planet that the era began
telescopic observations. Looking through a simple homemade telescope at
Jupiter, Galileo Galilei discovered 4 satellites (Io, Europa, Ganymede and
Callisto). This later played a huge role in the development
heliocentric system of the world. Small telescopes can also
consider several stripes on the disk of Jupiter - these are cloud belts.
The famous Great Red Spot is easily accessible for observation in
telescopes with a diameter of 80-90 mm. Sometimes satellites pass in front of the disk
planets, casting their shadows on it. This can also be seen in
telescope.
Saturn at about 200x magnification
Saturn is one of the most beautiful planets, every time you look at it
It just takes my breath away, even though I’ve seen it hundreds of times already.
The presence of the ring can be seen already in a small 50-60 mm telescope, but
It is best to observe this planet through telescopes with a diameter of 150-200 mm, in
which you can easily see the black gap between the rings
(Cassini gap), cloud belts and several satellites.
Approximate view of Uranus through a 200 mm telescope
Uranus and Neptune are planets circling away from other planets,
Small telescopes look only like stars. Larger telescopes
will show tiny bluish-greenish discs without any details.
Galaxies M81 and M82 in the constellation Ursa Major - an approximate view through 20x60 binoculars and telescopes with a diameter of 80-90 mm.
Galaxies. These star islands can be found not only in
telescope, but also binoculars. It is to find, not to consider. Through a telescope
they look like small colorless specks. Starting from diameter
90-100 mm, you can see the shape of bright galaxies. Exception -
The Andromeda nebula, its shape can be easily seen even with binoculars.
Of course, there can be no talk of any spiral arms until
diameter 200-250 mm, and even then they are noticeable only in a few galaxies.
Nebulae.
They are clouds of interstellar gas and (or) dust, illuminated
other stars or remnants of stars. Like galaxies, in a small
telescope they are visible in the form of faint spots, but in larger telescopes
(from 100-150 mm) you can notice the shape and structure of most bright
nebulae. One of the brightest nebulae - M42 in the constellation Orion -
can be seen even with the naked eye, and a telescope will show complex
gas structure, similar to puffs of smoke. Some compact bright
nebulae you can see the color - for example, the nebula NGC 6210
“Turtle”, which is visible as a small bluish disk.
A sun with spots as seen through a telescope with an aperture solar filter
I warn you right away - observe the Sun without special means.
protection is very dangerous! Only with a special aperture filter, which
must be securely attached to the front of the telescope.
No tint films, smoked glass or floppy disks! Take care
eyes! If all precautions are followed - even in a tiny
With a 50-60 mm telescope you will be able to see sunspots - dark
formations on the disk of the sun. These are the places from which magnetic
lines. Our Sun rotates with a period of about 25 days, so observing
Behind the sunspots every day, you can see the rotation of the Sun.
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