Observing
Mars with SkyTools 3
SkyTools
offers the mars observer the most complete set of observing
tools available in any software product.
The
feature map (below) closely matches what can be seen in
ground-based telescopes, allowing you to easily determine which
features you have observed.
But
to get that great view of mars it helps to know when to look.
The Observing Planner (below) can tell you the optimum time
period during which to observe mars on a given night. Note
the red-dashed line on the night graphic--that's the altitude of
mars with respect to time. The green horizontal line is
the altitude at which you are looking through twice as much air
as overhead (2 Airmass). It is best to try to observe mars
when it is above this line.
Synopsis...
All
the tabular information one could wish for is available (below),
including apparent data for your specific location at a specific
time.
Another
way to plan your mars observing is with the Current and Special
Events tools. The Current Events tool (below) lists
interesting events such as appulses with selected stars or
planets, and satellite elongations (when a satellite is farthest
from the planet).
"Good
timing can be key to catching one of the moons of
mars."
Like
many difficult observations good timing can be key to catching
one of the moons of mars. An opposition
brings us the best chance in to see these moons. But when
to look? This tool will tell you the dates/times when you
will have the best opportunities. Why leave it to chance?
Once
you choose a date/time to attempt a martian moon, SkyTools will
show you exactly where to look for it. In addition to the
detailed view (below) SkyTools simulates the view of mars in
various eyepieces, and can display a dawes-limit based
simulation of the detail you can expect to see in your
telescope.
Another
tool available to plan your mars observing is the Ephemeris
tool. In addition to a simple ephemeris, SkyTools computes
an innovative optimum nightly viewing ephemeris (below).
This ephemeris lists the optimum time to observe mars each
night, using a complex model that takes into account such
factors as the altitude of mars and moonlight . As with
all tools, a right-click menu can take you right to the chart of
your choice set up at the proper time, location, etc.
Finally,
once you have made your observation the SkyTools logbook
provides an ideal means of recording what you saw. Images
or sketches can be attached (to mars itself) for future
reference. Use the Night Log (not shown) to
record the entirety of the observing experience, perhaps on that
night when those Raccoons nearly scared you into dropping your
Nagler.
SkyTools
offers a complete set of mars observing software tools.
Innovation, ease of use, well thought out tools created by an
avid observer, an intuitive interface, and an unparalleled
ability to accomplish what you wish to with a minimum of time
and fuss--these are the hallmarks of SkyTools.
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