Re: Satellite Structure (Birds across the moon)
Dave Mullenix (djmullen@facstaff.wisc.edu)
Thu, 23 Jul 1998 17:34:09 -0500
JRBURCA@aol.com wrote:
> In my telescopic observations of the Moon and Sun, I've seen things go
> quickly across my field of view. At first, I thought they were satellites,
> but
> later concluded they were more likely high flying birds (real birds), or
> perhaps balloons in some cases. High flying airplanes are easier to
> recognize.
Last fall I used a CCD camera and a friend's 8" Meade to video tape the
moon. The telescope was set up pointing over a freshly harvested corn
field. We were both amazed at the number of birds that flew through our
relatively narrow field of view. (A CCD chip about a quarter inch square
at the prime focus - well under 1/4 degree, I'm sure.) At least four or
five birds flew by in fifteen minutes of taping.
Dave Mullenix