SPA Lunar Section Projects
The SPALS projects enable the amateur astronomer to learn about the Moon through systematic observation. Real lunar science can be pursued by anyone - even if you don't have binoculars or a telescope. Below is a brief summary of the various topics covered.
1. Naked Eye Lunar Research
2. Binocular and Small Telescope Studies
3. Special Topographic Projects
NEW! 4. International Bright Lunar Rays Project
NEW! 5. Banded Lunar Craters
6. TLP Investigation
7. Eclipse Programme
1. Naked Eye Lunar Research
Project pack contains information about:-
Observing the Moon's features
Observing the Moon's phases
Measuring the Moon's diameter & distance
Observing lunar eclipses
Observing the earthshine
Atmospheric phenomena
Colour perception in moonlight & lunar illusions
Numerous activities are outlined. Some projects require careful observation over time.
2. Binocular & Small Telescope Studies
Observational projects deal with:-
The lunar seas
Ray craters
Walled plains
Mountain ranges & isolated peaks
Near-limb observations - including Mare Orientale
3. Special Topographic Studies
These projects are intended for users of 60 mm refractor or larger. They require careful telescopic observation and recording of specific areas of the Moon over an extended period of time. There is the option of conducting your own analysis of the region you have chosen to observe. A set of questions relevant to your chosen area is posed, including questions about lunar geology and the nature and possible mode of formation of the features you have observed. Speculation is encouraged.
Areas Under Special Investigation:
Aristarchus region - a geologically diverse region of the Moon, with a bright impact crater, a dark lava-filled crater, a ghost crater, a dome and a spectacular sinuous rille.
Gassendi - a large crater on the northern shore of Mare Humorum whose floor contains hills and mountains and is crossed by numerous rilles.
Phocylides, Nasmyth & Wargentin - three very different craters near the Moon's southwest limb.
Straight Wall - a huge linear fault in the Moon's crust.
Alpine Valley - this straight deep valley cuts right through the lunar Alps.
Lamont - a unique "wrinkle" feature in Mare Tranquillitatis.
NEW! 4. International Bright Lunar Rays Project
Ray systems adorn the face of the Moon. They are best observed under high illumination conditions. Much useful work may be done with binoculars and small telescopes. Using larger instruments the rays may be discerned in detail. Mapping sections of these rays is the task of the participant. This is a project participated in by:- Association of Lunar & Planetary Observers (ALPO); American Lunar Society (ALS); Italian Union of Amateur Astronomers (IUAA); British Astronomical Association Lunar Section Topographic Subsection; Society for Popular Astronomy Lunar Section (SPALS).
NEW! 5. Banded Lunar Craters
Certain lunar craters display dusky banding in their inner walls. The most notable example of a banded crater is Aristarchus on whose inner western wall banding may be discerned through very small instruments.
6. TLP Detection
Help with advanced work including intensity estimations.
7. Lunar Eclipse Programme
Lunar eclipses are spectacular sights. The SPA Lunar Section distributes observing information for forthcoming lunar eclipses. The project pack contains information on:-
Eclipse drawing & photography
Shadow contact timings
Colour & intensity estimations
How to join the SPALS Projects
To be involved, you must be a SPA member or a member of a participating astronomical organisation. If you would like to join any of the projects outlined above, state your preference and send me two 1st class UK postage stamps. You will be sent the project pack of your choice. Please note that because SPA Directors receive no regular funding, it is not possible to send out more than one project pack per member at any one time.
