Lunar Club Program question (binocular object)

michaellmn · Post by **michaellmn** » Mon Jun 20, 2005 9:56 pm

Hello,

One of the binocular objects for the lunar club program is simply labeled, "Lunar Rays". Are these the rays extending out from some of the larger craters like Tycho or Copernicus? Or, am I missing something more obvious and simple?

Thanks!

Best regards,
Michael Lawrence

mlfj4901 · Post by **mlfj4901** » Mon Jun 20, 2005 10:37 pm

Greetings,

You nailed it!

However to confuse you once again.....

Some lunar observers refer to another phenomeon as "lunar rays".

When the sunlight on the moon pops over a mountain pass a "lunar ray" can be seen lighting up a small sliver of the moon that is other wise dark. These last only a few moments, and you have to know where to look.

Here's a link: http://www.lunar-occultations.com/rlo/rays/rays.htm

-matt

michaellmn · Post by **michaellmn** » Tue Jun 21, 2005 11:11 am

Thanks, Matt!

So the first definition (rays extending from a larger crater) is what the Astronomical League is looking for. The second definition from the link you provided would be an option worth pursuing but not necessary for completing the list. Is that correct?

Again, thank you - for the information and the link. I learned something new.

mlfj4901 · Post by **mlfj4901** » Tue Jun 21, 2005 10:35 pm

Greetings,

Correct!

Have fun.

By the way the moon tonight at about 9:45 was awesome! Gigantic, yellowish, and swathed in light clouds.

-matt