Move the mouse pointer over the photo - wait a bit - and a key to the
major features will appear.
The "Iridium" family of communication satellites display a fascinating feature which makes
them a delight to observe.
Less common is their charming habit of reflecting intense sunlight from their solar cell
panels as they transit the night sky. The effect for the observer is a satellite which
gradually brightens, peaking in a bright flare which then gradually subsides.
The photo at left is a 30 second exposure, 400ASA film, 28mm lens, no tracking.
The red colour of the nebula surrounding Eta Carina is likewise apparent here, yet invisible to the naked eye.
In common with many satellites, their orbital elements are well-known and can be used to
accurately predict when and where they will appear in the evening sky.
Of interest, too, is the visibility of the Coal Sack Nebula, seen here below Alpha and Beta Crucis.
This dark nebula is totally invisible to the naked eye, (at least anywhere near Parramatta)
yet stands out clearly in this 30 sec. exposure.
Return to near occultations, lunar eclipse, Saturn, or Jupiter.
