Calibration of the observations

Eartshine in 11-03-2005. credit: NASA






















Earthshine. Credit of the illustration: Robert Knop




In order to get familiarized with the impact area, with the calibration and reduction of the aspects of stray light , the observations and the acquisition of images at visible light and with filters in this region will be held within months before the event is carried.

Perform some images of the impact site (which is in the dark...) to check the straylight level. For PR purposes, do some tests with the illuminated part in the field of view (if your field of view is large enough) and do some tests with the illuminated part in the field of view (if your field of view is large enough).

Perform some image the complete Moon at the same phase as during the impact.

Perform some long-exposure images to see the unilluminated side of the Moon in earthshine - this we would use during the actual impact to search for ejecta clouds at visible light and with filters.

The conditions – including technical - must be similar to the ones which will be carried in September - same instruments, closes, filters, same lunar phase (interval of 29.53 days), darkness and distance from the terminator.

Obeying to these criteria, the observations must be held during the following days:
5th to 6th of July and 3rd to 4th of August.

It is strongly encouraged that the observer use this time (or the days preceding or following if the day of choice is clouded out) to practice with their setup, assess stray light problems and take steps to minimize this.