The sky was partly cloudy during the day. The Stellina telescope was fitted with a solar filter to observe the sun and sunspots. After the system locks onto the sun, it takes about 40 images a minute. I believe each exposure is 1/4000 second. In the past I have captured silhouettes of birds or planes passing in front of the sun. 15-September-2023 Since we are in a solar maximum period there are lots of sunspots. In the time-lapse video clouds and jet contrails pass in front of the sun.
Sun with sunspots. Image taken with a Stellina Telescope (400 mm, f/5, 1/4000 sec).
By evening, the sky clouded over so no observations of the comet tonight. We really need some rain.
Author: David Mathre
I am a scientist by training (Eckerd College, BSc; Caltech, Ph.D.). I worked for 27 years as a Chemist in the Pharmaceutical Industry developing processes to manufacture medicines for human and animal health. I now spend my time as a photographer and world traveler. My interests include the natural world, wildlife, landscapes, sky, and seascapes, travel, and astrophotography. I look for unique ways of viewing the world and presenting my images. I have traveled to over 55 countries in six continents, often on Semester at Sea voyages. While at home in New Jersey, I spend time on home renovation and expansion of a wildflower garden/meadow.
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