Area of darkness overlapping NW rim. It was visible through
this area of obscuration. Sketch. Cameron 2006 extended catalog
ID=376 and Cameron weight=3. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Alphonsus 1972 Jul 29 UT 00:30-03:30 Observed by Morgan (England, UK)
"Orange spot just W. of c.p. on central ridge; circular area @ 15-25km
diam, larger than c.p. Was bright orange then turned orange-brown
toward center. Central 4,5km was darker than rest; bownish-black with
blue-white specks flashing in center. Obscur. there but ridge clear
elsewhere. The dark spot SW of c.p. could not be seentho outside of
color area. Sketch. It had appearance of dome of atm. thicker at
center. Never seen before in 11y. Next nite brighter. NASA catalog
weight=3. NASA catalog ID #1337. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Aristarchus 1970 Feb 24 UTC 07:00? Observed by Thomas & Stump
(Corralitos Observatory, Organ PAss, NM, USA, 24" refletor+Moon Blink)
"Bluring around crater -- vis. in monitor, but not photographed due to
clouds." NASA catalog weight=4 (good). NASA catalog ID #1235.
On 1989 Jan 26 at UT 03:45 De Groof (Belgium) noted a white few second
long flash from Copernicus crater. The Cameron 2006 catalog ID=347 and
weight=3. The ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Aristarchus 1969 Sep 30 UT 04:46-05:10 Observed by Maley, Saulietis
(Houston, TX, USA, 16" reflector, x130) "Intermittent blue color on SE
wall, verified by others. At 0500h, taking 10s to reach max. then
slowly disappeared. Gap appeared after 1st event. Drawing." NASA
catalog weight=4. NASA catalog ID #1202. ALPO/BAA weight=4.
On 1964 Feb 02 at UT08:30-09:40 G.Reneau and B.Crowe (2.4"
refractor, x90)observed Ross D to be double. This was during a
time when observers were looking for a Ranger crash plume. The
Cameron 1978 catalog ID=799 and weight=1. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1983 May 31 at UT03:45-04:30 K. Marshall (Medellin, Columbia) noted
that the whole area of Aristarchus, Herodotus, and Schroter's valley
was both blurred and violet. There was hardly any detail seen inside
the crater. Herodotus could hardly be seen either and Schroter's valley
was totally unrecognizable. A sketch was supplied. The Cameron 2006
catalog ID=223 and the weight=3.
On 1895 Sep 07 an unknown observer (Lewis Swift?) observed a pale blue
segment on the upper limb - this was apparently confirmed by Faulkes
(Mem. BAA, 1895). Cameron says that this is probably 1895 Sep 08 at UT
06:00 as Sep 07 is local time. She also infers that "upper limb" is the
southern limb and that Swift was at the Lowell Observatory, Flagstaff,
AZ, USA. The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=285 and weight=5. The ALPO/BAA
weight=2.
Alphonsus 1972 Jul 30 UT 00:30-03:30 Observed by Morgan (UK
using a reflector) "Orange glow, brighter this nite than last
nite. Following nites were cloudy. Aristarchus and Gassendi
were negative." NASA catalog weight=3. NASA catalog ID #1338.
ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Aristarchus 1975 Nov 15 UT 06:34 Observed by Rule (Edinburgh, Scotland,
4" reflector x36) "Blue patch in crater (similar to many of Bartlett's
obs.?)" NASA catalog weight=2 (low). NASA catalog ID #1383.
On 1985 May 09 at UT 22:50-03:10 P. Foley (Kent, UK) observed
the whole of Aristarchus to be a strong violet color. No
colour was seen elsewhere on the Moon. The Cameron 2006
catalog ID is 272 and the weight is 2. The ALPO/BAA
weight is 2.
On 1985 May 09/10 at UT 22:50-03:10 P.W. Foley (Kent, UK) found that
Torricelli B was very bright in Earthshine and was blue in colour. The
Cameron 2006 catalog ID=272 and the weight=2. The ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1987 Oct 13 at UT14:00-17:00 J. Moeller (Kirkville, NY, USA,
6" reflector) observe and 10x70 binoculars) noted that
Aristarchus was brilliant in the sky and the most striking
feature on the lunar surface (2-3x brighter than Tycho). It
appeared as a hazy white cloud at first. The effect lasted for 3
hours. The Cameron 2006 catalog ID=309 and the weight=1. The
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Marcus Price (Camberley, Surrey, UK) noted that Aristarchus
was extremely bright. A 6" reflector was used. The Cameron
2006 Catalog ID is #98 and the weight is 1. The ALPO/BAA weight
is 1 too.
Aristarchus 1980 Aug 04 UT 11:40-11:53 Observed by Jean
Nicolini (Campinas, SP, Brazil, 6" reflector and 12"
reflector) "Red glow seen on SE exterior of Aristarchus".
ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Grimaldi 1972 Aug 02 UT 23:42 Observed by Taylor, Findlay, Ford
(Dundee, Scotland, 10" refractor, x180, filters) "Blink in crater,
slight but definite on W. wall. Appeared bright without filters.
Confirmed by Findlay & Ford. Aris., Gass. & prom. Heraclides were
normal." NASA catalog weight=5. NASA catalog ID #1339. ALPO/BAA
weight=4.
Aristarchus 1955 Jul 13 UTC 02:50 Observed by Firsoff (Somerset,
England) "Brilliant in blue & green filters. Didn't seem to be as clear
as other craters." NASA catalog weight=4 (good). NASA catalog ID #598.
Copernicus 1996 Sep 06 UT 01:45 Observed by C Brook (Plymouth, UK, 60mm
refractor x28, x112, transparency, not good) "Shadows of central
mountains could not be seen although the shadows on the crater ramparts
were visible" BAA Lunar Section report. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Spitzenberg Mountains 1980 Jul 06 UT 02:05-02:26 Observed by Madj
(Newsome, Huddersfield, UK, 70mm OG, Seeing started as I and ended up
as IV) "Obscuration seen near Spitzenberg Mountains" BAA Lunar Section
Report.
Tycho 1990 Dec 10 UT 11:03-12:49 Observed by Darling (Sun Prairie, WI,
USA, 12.5" Newtonian, x63) "Nebulous patch seen where the central peak
should have been in the 90% shadow filled crater. The nebulous patch is
seen to vary in size and a star-like point is seen inside it briefly
for 1 sec. The nebulous patch was a bit like what one expects from a
close-up view of a cometry nucleus. A sketch and an image can be found
on the following web site:
http://www.ltpresearch.org/ltpreports/ltp19901210.htm " An ALPO report.
On 1987 Oct 17 at UT17:00-18:00 (in daylight) J. Moeller (Kerkville,
NY, USA, 6" reflector, x80-x135) observed that Aristarchus had a long
trench-like feature going off to the north west limb. On the 18th this
feature was more cloud like, "bright white and opaque. (Trench =
Schrotes Valley? Similar to 10/13/67)". The Cameron 2006 catalof ID=311
and the weight=1. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1989 Feb 08/09 at UT 23:50-00:15 D. Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA,
3" refractor, x36, S=7/10) detected that the west limb, south of Mare
Humorum, was "shimmering". Weier (Sun praire, WI, USA) also detected a
star-like point south of Mare Humorum "which was 2x > Aris. in
Earthshine 3x it lasted a few secs". Interestingly about 18 hours
later, observers in the UK also found the limb to be very bright. The
Cameron 2006 catalog ID=348 and the weight=1. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1969 Oct 14 at UT 00:00-00:30 Celis et al. (Valparaiso,
Chile, seeing=good and transparency=good). observed Aristarchus
and found it to be: "Scintillating in irreg. way. Pulses of 1m
each time changing with normal & irreg. periods. Best time to
see this is 2-3d age. Brightenings comparable to 7.0-7.5 mag.
stars, at age 2.2d;7.6-8.0 mag. at age 3.0 & 8.5-9.0 mag. at
4.2d. Moon obs. from age 1d to 62d with several refr. & refl. in
program of obs. of scintillation in ashen light.
(Atmospheric?)". The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=1203 and weight=1.
The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1965 Dec 27 at UT Bornhurst (Monterey Park, CA, USA, 10" reflector)
and (Harris (Whittier? CA, USA, 19" reflector?) observed brightening of
Aristarchus in Ashen light. Cameron says that this is an independent
confirmation? The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=918 and weight=4. The
ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1983 Feb 15 at UT 18:00? G. Amery (Reading, UK) found that he could
not see Aristarchus in Earthshine, despite less normally priminent
features being clearly seen. This observation was confirmed. Other
observers were: Moore, Cooks, and Foley. The Cameron 2006 catalog ID=
203 and weight=2. The ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1981 Jul 06 at UT01:49 Hobdell (St Peterburg, FL,
USA, 2.4" refractor) saw a yellow flash from Bullialdus in
earthshine. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1990 Jan 01 at UT 16:55-18:45 H. Miles (Cornwall, UK) observed that
Aristarchus was seen in Earthshine at 16:55UT before the limb (was
visible in Earthshine?). "1705 Aris>>1723 fading 1727 > again." Then:
"1740 Aris << and just visible at 1845". Apparently Foley suspects that
Aristarchus had brightened up before 16:55UT (shwen H. Miles started to
observe) and then gradually retruned to normal. The Cameron 2006
catalog ID=385 and the weight=0. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1990 Jan 01 at UT 17:29 H. Miles (Cornwall, UK) observed that
Copernicus had a faint glow in it. The Cameron 2006 catalog ID=385 and
the weight=0. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1822 Jan 27 at UT 20:00? F. Struve (Pulkovo Observatory? Russia)
observed near Aristarchus an 8th magnitude star-like point. Seen
through overcast! (Klado gave date as 1821 but must be in error
according to cameron). The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=95 and the weight=4.
The ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1969 Oct 16 at UT 00:00-00:30 Celis (Quilpue, Chile, 3" refractor,
x60, seeing=very good) observed brilliant points at 8.5 magnitude in
Aristarchus. This was not seen the next night or the one after, nor
after 5 days age. The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=1204 and weight=1. The
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1983 Feb 17 at 19:00?UT G. Amery (Reading, UK) noticed that
Aristarchus was not visible in Earthshine, despite other less prominent
features being seen. The observation was confirmed by other observers.
The Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID=204 and the weight=2. The
ALPo/BAA weight=2.
On 1983 Feb 17 at 19:00?UT G. Amery (Reading, UK) noticed that
Messier was ill-defined. The Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID=204 and
the weight=2. The ALPo/BAA weight=1.
Kant 1873 Jan 04 UT 23:00? Observed by Trouvelot (Cambridge, Mass, 8"
refractor) "Luminous puplish vapors" NASA catalog weight=3 (average).
NASA catalog ID #180.
On 1994 Jun 14 UT 21:45-22:00 G.Rogers (Crendon, UK, 3" Zeiss
refractor, sky conditions perfectly clear) reported seeing three
very large whitish clouds against the Moon. The strongest seemed
to "stem" from the vicinity of Santbech crater (crater
identified the next day from an atlas), and was a milk chocolate
colour near the stem. The other two large clouds were to the
north - in the general area of Mare Fecunditatis and Mare
Crisium though perhaps slightly further west and in contact with
the terminator? The effect was confirmed (independently) by 4
other observers using the same telescope. The telescope was
moved but the clouds remained in the same position over the
Moon. This report comes from The Astronomer Jan 2013 p 230.
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1989 Feb 11 at UT23:30-01:39 D. Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA, 12.5"
reflector, x159, seeing=7/10) observed a linear east to west feature in
Proclus. D. Weier (WI, USA, 11" reflector, x378) found the NNW part of
the crater to be brighter than expected and confirmed the prescence of
the east to west feature - this crossed the shadow on the east floor
and over into Mare Crisium. R. Manske (WI, USA) detected another
"streak" parallel to this. All observers suspect that the linear
features were due to raised topography on the floor of Proclus -
however Cameron comments that there does not seem to be any linear
features on the floor of Proclus to cause these effects. The Cameron
2006 catalog ID=351 and the weight=5. The ALPO/BAA weight=2.
G Johnson of Swanton, MD, USA used a 2" refractor at f/12.
Aristachus revealed as a red spot on a photo of the Moon. This
was similar to another photo obtained on 1988 Apr 21st. Frame (with 3
exposures present)reveals a dim star like point near Campanus on
exposure 1. Expsoure 2 shows it a little east on the Earth-lit
part. Exposure 3 shows it off the south-east limb. Apparently 20
minutes later took 2 exposures and frame 18 was a double. The
second exposure revealed an object farther from the limb but the
first exposure does not show the object. The two high power exposures
do not show it. Cameron could not see the spots that Johson describes
on his slides, but did see several spots (defects?) on the
8 and 12 second exposures near Hevelius and also on the 20 second
exposure near to Hecataeus only. BAA members observed star like
flashes a few hours earlier - near Aristarchus. One BAA member, Madej,
had seen a green glow in Arisarchus in two places in two eyepieces.
Cameron 2006 Catalog extension ID=265 and weight=2.
G Johnson of Swanton, MD, USA used a 2" refractor at f/12.
Aristachus revealed as a red spot on a photo of the Moon. This
was similar to another photo obtained on 1988 Apr 21st. Frame (with 3
exposures present)reveals a dim star like point near Campanus on
exposure 1. Expsoure 2 shows it a little east on the Earth-lit
part. Exposure 3 shows it off the south-east limb. Apparently 20
minutes later took 2 exposures and frame 18 was a double. The
second exposure revealed an object farther from the limb but the
first exposure does not show the object. The two high power exposures
do not show it. Cameron could not see the spots that Johson describes
on his slides, but did see several spots (defects?) on the
8 and 12 second exposures near Hevelius and also on the 20 second
exposure near to Hecataeus only. BAA members observed star like
flashes a few hours earlier - near Aristarchus. One BAA member, Madej,
had seen a green glow in Arisarchus in two places in two eyepieces.
Cameron 2006 Catalog extension ID=265 and weight=2.
G Johnson of Swanton, MD, USA used a 2" refractor at f/12.
Aristachus revealed as a red spot on a photo of the Moon. This
was similar to another photo obtained on 1988 Apr 21st. Frame (with 3
exposures present)reveals a dim star like point near Campanus on
exposure 1. Expsoure 2 shows it a little east on the Earth-lit
part. Exposure 3 shows it off the south-east limb. Apparently 20
minutes later took 2 exposures and frame 18 was a double. The
second exposure revealed an object farther from the limb but the
first exposure does not show the object. The two high power exposures
do not show it. Cameron could not see the spots that Johson describes
on his slides, but did see several spots (defects?) on the
8 and 12 second exposures near Hevelius and also on the 20 second
exposure near to Hecataeus only. BAA members observed star like
flashes a few hours earlier - near Aristarchus. One BAA member, Madej,
had seen a green glow in Arisarchus in two places in two eyepieces.
Cameron 2006 Catalog extension ID=265 and weight=2.
G Johnson of Swanton, MD, USA used a 2" refractor at f/12.
Aristachus revealed as a red spot on a photo of the Moon. This
was similar to another photo obtained on 1988 Apr 21st. Frame (with 3
exposures present)reveals a dim star like point near Campanus on
exposure 1. Expsoure 2 shows it a little east on the Earth-lit
part. Exposure 3 shows it off the south-east limb. Apparently 20
minutes later took 2 exposures and frame 18 was a double. The
second exposure revealed an object farther from the limb but the
first exposure does not show the object. The two high power exposures
do not show it. Cameron could not see the spots that Johson describes
on his slides, but did see several spots (defects?) on the
8 and 12 second exposures near Hevelius and also on the 20 second
exposure near to Hecataeus only. BAA members observed star like
flashes a few hours earlier - near Aristarchus. One BAA member, Madej,
had seen a green glow in Arisarchus in two places in two eyepieces.
Cameron 2006 Catalog extension ID=265 and weight=2.
SE of Ross D 1964 Feb 19 UT 03:00 Observed by Bender (Whittier, CA,
USA, 19?" reflector) "Variations in the ring" NASA catalog weight=1.
NASA catalog ID #800. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1967 Apr 15 at UT 19:15-21:00 Classen (Pulsnitz Observatory, East
Germany, 8" refractor) found that Aristarchus was very bright and the
atmospheric seeing was very good until 21:00UT. Nothing unsual was seen
on 16th and 17th April. Cameron reports that this was the first TLP
seen by this group. The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=1022 and the weight=3.
The ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1794 Mar 07 at UT 20:00 Stretton and Wilkins (England, UK)
observed Aristarchus appearing as a light like a star in
Earthsine to the naked eye(independent confirmation according
to Cameron?). The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=73 and 74 and the
weight=5. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1983 Feb 18 at 19:00?UT P.W. Foley (Kent, UK) noted that the
southern Mare Crisium appeared to be obscured by a pale grey haze.
Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID=205 and weight=3. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1983 Feb 18 at 19:00?UT P.W. Foley (Kent, UK) noted that Toricelli B
was steel blue in colour and this spread 10-15 miles outside the
crater. This was odd because Torricelli B was only 6 miles in size.
Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID=205 and weight=3. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1895 Sep 25 at UT 20:00? Gaboreau (Paris, France) observed on the
Moon s shaft of light (same observation as Cameron's TLP report #281
and further more it is on the same day and month as it was back in
1893. The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=286 and weight=0. The ALPO/BAA
weight=1.
Menelaus 1976 Sep 01 UT 00:40 Observed by Bartlett (Baltimore, MD, USA,
4.5" reflector, 45-300x) "Upper 1/2 of W.wall bright white (8deg).
Lower 1/2 much duller at 4 deg & distinctly bluish-gray. Same as seen
in Aris. & Grimaldi & thinks it is due local agency (gas?)." NASA
catalog weight=4 (high). NASA catalog ID #1447.
On 1983 Apr 19 at 21:45UT M.C. Cook (Frimley, UK) reported that
Censorinus' exterior white patch was grayish at this time and there was
a "momentary glow outisde the crater to the North West. The Crater
Extinction Device brightness measurement for Censorinus was 4.0 whereas
Proclus was 4.4. Cook was expecting a lower CED brightness measurement.
Foley notes that Censorinus is usually brighter than Proclus. On 1983
Jan 29 Chapman obtained a very high brightness measurement for this
spot. The Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID=212 and the weight=3. The
ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1983 Feb 19 at 20:00UT P.W. Foley (Maidstone, Kent, UK, 12"
reflector) noticed a deep steel blue colour inside Toricelli B with a
lighter colour about 10-15 miles outside. Foley came to the conclusion
that this was too visible for its size. Cameron 2006 Catalog extension
ID=206 and weight=3. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Ptolemaeus 1978 Apr 15 UTC 21:54-22:20 Observed by A.Cook
(Frimley, Surrey, UK, 12" reflector x240, S=IV (Antoniadi))
"Small triangular area on the NW floor of the crater, at the
foot of the rim, was slightly brighter in blue light than in red
(Moonblink used). Suspected this was due to the poor observing
conditions. Certainly blink reaction was not unmistakable".
ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Archimedes 1966 Mar 29 UT 21:00 Observed by Hill (England, 24"
reflector, x250, S=E) "Brightening of E-W bands across floor.
(Obscuration accord. to Moore)" NASA catalog ID #923. NASA
catalog weight=3. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1986 Nov 09 at UT 23:00 Quinn (Glebview, IL, USA, 8" reflector, x49-
x305) found īn the vicinity of an unnamed ridge points toward Pico- two
bright points about 5 magnitudes brighter than any other part of the
Moon. The Alpine valley points directly between these two points. "Came
from apparently featureless area. Both points about the same size, but
different shapes ~ width of alpine valley" The observer used 4
different eyepieces and the points were brightest in the lowest power.
Other specks of light could be seen in the darkness wound the N point.
The Cameron 2006 catalog ID=289 and the weight=3. The ALPO/BAA
weight=2.
In 1922 May 04 at UT Burnerd (England?) discovered three long mounds in
Archimedes crater (rays?). The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=385 and weight=
0. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1979 May 04 at 21:30-22:00UT Coates detected a star-like point
inside Hipparchus L crater using averted vision. Cameron in her 2006
catalog extension comments that Hipparchus L is a highlands impact
crater with a rille on the western ejecta blanket. The crater is the
smallest one in a chain that are sequenced to be half the size of the
previous crater in the chain. Apparently the largest crater in the
chain is Hind with a largely landslide covered floor - although on the
south is a dome? with a summit crater. Cameron's 2006 catalog extension
gives this TLP an ID of 51 and a weight=2. The ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1983 Feb 20 at 20:00UT P.W. Foley (Maidstone, Kent, UK, 12"
reflector) noticed a deep steel blue colour inside Toricelli B with a
lighter colour about 10-15 miles outside. Foley came to the conclusion
that this was too visible for its size. Cameron 2006 Catalog extension
ID=206 and weight=3. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Montes Teneriffe 1854 Dec 27 UT 18:00-23:00, Observed by
Hart & others (Glasgow, Scotland, 10" reflector), "2 luminous
fiery spots on bright side on either side of a ridge,
contrasting color. Seemed to be 2 active volcanoes. Ridge was
normal color. Spots were yellow or flame color. Never seen
before in 40 yrs. of observing." Please try to observe this
when the Moon is low on the horizon to see if this mimics
the effects seen? NASA catalog weight=4. NASA catalog ID #129.
ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 2003 Apr 10 at 00:40UT a GLR observer G. Jasmin (Quebec, Canada,
using a 10" F-10 Schmidt Cassegrain) took a photograph of Alphonsus
crater on Kodak 400ASA film with an exposure of 1/30th sec. There was a
light visible (diameter 10 km) inside Alphonsus and the effect was
present for 5 minutes. The observer commented that they have seen a
light in this crater many times before, but never as long as 5 minutes.
This report was submitted to the GLR group in Italy. The ALPO/BAA
weight=2.
Thaetetus 1952 Dec 24 UT 20:00? Observed by Moore (England?)
"Bright spot, hazy line of light" NASA catalog weight=4. NASA
catalog ID 556. ALPO/BAA weigh=2.
On 2009 Aug 28 at UTC 17:00:15-17:00:42 S. Khachatryan (Yerevan,
Armenia, 127mm Maksutov-Cassegrain, x171, seeing 9 (1=worst and 10-
best), Transparency 5-6 on a scale of 1 to 6) observed in the Chacornac
area a series of fiery sparks (dot like with tiny rays), slightly
elongated with the multitudinal rays orientated towards the south west
direction. The colour was mostly red, with some yellow. The final flash
was the most clear. The TLP was tiny in area, but "was distinctly
bright against any other object on the Moon". The positional
uncertainty of the location of the spark effect was approximately +/-
150 km, based upon an examination of an atlas afterwards. Just prior to
the spark effect, something dark, small and fuzzy (only just discrnable
to the eye, through the eyepiece) was seen to pass from the west across
the Moon in a slight curve, round the surface of the Moon to the east
(post observation estimate: seen for 3.5 sec and covered roughly 8% of
the lunar diameter in that time). The area of the dark object was
comparable in size to (or slightly less than?) craters such as
Autolycus F (diameter 3km) or le Monnier E (diameter 4km) i.e. on the
limits of vision of the scope used. The location of the flash was not
exactly at the same location as the dark object passed across, but gave
the impression of starting from it? A back of the envelope calculation
of the lunar diameter covered in the time quoted gives an approximate
speed (at the lunar distance) of 80km/s or on the very high end of
typical meteor streams that pass by. At closer distances, and
recalculated velocities, it is unlikely to be a satellite in low Earth
orbit (20m/sec at 100km distance), but could perhaps be a bird or
insect at a few km range? So was this dark object something in our
atmosphere by chance passing across the field of view close to the time
of the TLP flare or was at the lunar distance and related to the TLP?
Incidentally, no attempt was made during this observation to move the
scope to check that the TLP remained stationary against the Moon. The
ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1889 Jun 06 at 22:00 UT Lade of France (8" refractor) saw two
extremely bright spots (Plato B & D). Cameron 1978 catalog ID=262 and
weight=2. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1988 Feb 25 at UT20:00? P.W. Foley (Kent, UK, 12" reflector) found
that Aristarchus was very bright (especially in the UV end of the
spectrum) despite other features not being seen in Earthshine. The
cameron 2006 catalog ID=318 and the weight=1. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Proclus 1976 Jul 06 UT 01:35 Observed by Bartlett (Baltimore, MD, USA,
3" refractor, 40-450x, S=6, T=3) "Nothing vis. on floor (albedo=2 deg?)
(usually features are vis.)" NASA catalog weight=4 (high).NASA catalog
ID #1437.
Although the crater was on the night side, a small bright spot
was seen. This was blue, almost UV, and equivalent to a star of
magnitude 2. It flashed over intervals of about 30 seconds
and changed in colour from UV to blue. The BAA Lunar Section
TLP network was alerted. Mobberly and J.Cook did not see much
although J. Cook may have seen something, but located else where?
Cameron lists this as a confirmed? observation? The Cameron
2006 TLP xtension catalog has this TLP with an ID No. of 258
and a weight of 4. The ALPO/BAA weight is 2.
Ross D 1964 Apr 21 UT 04:23-05:01 Observed by the Capens (CA,
USA, 16" and 6", seeing 3-5, transparency 5+) "Obscuration of
its rim" NASA catalog weight=4. NASA catalog ID #808. ALPO/BAA
weight=2.
On 1983 Apr 21 at UT 21:55-22:05 N. King (Winnersh, Berkshire,
UK, using a 150cm f/8 reflector, with seeing I and
transparency good, little spurious colour, just a little in
Plato). Although observing since 21:25UT the observer noticed
a just detectable faint green colour just after the dark shade
around the inner eastern crater rim. The effect faded and by
22:05UT had completely gone. This report is not in the Cameron
2006 catalog. It is a BAA report. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1983 Feb 21 at 20:00UT P.W. Foley (Maidstone, Kent, UK, 12"
reflector) noticed a deep steel blue colour inside Toricelli B with a
lighter colour about 10-15 miles outside. Foley came to the conclusion
that this was too visible for its size. Cameron 2006 Catalog extension
ID=206 and weight=3. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Alphonsus 2004 Feb 29 UT 19:00-19:15 Observed by Brook (Plymouth,
England, 60mm OG x120) "Checked central peak of Alphonsus using 60mm OG
x120 + right angle prism. Moon at very high elevation, seeing excellent
once clouds had dispersed, transparency also excellent. Time of
observation 19-00 hrs UT to 19-15 hrs UT. Noticed fluctuation of
brightness of A's central peak compared with the peak of Arzachel.
Alphonsus' peak generally brighter." BAA Lunar Section report. ALPO/BAA
weight=2.
On 2010 Aug 19 at UT 00:50-01:02 J.Albert (Lakeworth, FL, USA,
C11, Transparency 3, Seeing 7-8, 86F and very humid. Oberver
checking out repeat illumination condition appearence for Tycho
concerning LTP #468 in the 1978 Cameron catalog. Did not see the
effect from the original TLP report, but did see, immediately at
looking at Tycho a very faint hint of redness in a pencil thin
arc (< 1/4 circumference of the rim) confined to the top of the
rim of the well-lit north east wall. Coloured arc similar in
thickness to Rupes Recta, but not as sharply defined. The outer
(E) edge was perhaps sharper than the inner edge. The redness
was more on the inside of the top of the rim. The outside of the
rim was bright white. This effect was seen in three different
eyepieces, at 311x, 224x and 400x. Checked for the effect on
other craters nearby but could not see this effect anywhere
else. The colour had dissapeared by 01:02UT. The fade took about
1-2 minutes. Observation of Tycho continued until 01:06UT, but
all seemed normal. Quick checks were made again on Tycho
periodically until 02:50UT but the colour was not seen again.
ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Linne 1868 Jul 28 UT 20:00? Observed by Tacchini (Palermo, Italy)
"Shadow not so marked-had a light penumbra, indicated a feeble cavity.
Other craters had a black shad. On 29th appeared completely white.
Crater normal on 26th. (letter to Madler Sep. 16, 1868)." NASA
catalog weight=4 (high). NASA catalog ID #159.
On 1979 Jul 03 at UT 20:55-21:20 J-H. Robinson (Teighmouth, Devon, UK,
10" reflector, seeing II) observed that Messier was brighter than
Messier A. No colour was observed. The Cameron 2006 catalog ID is 58
and the weight=3. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1964 Feb 22 at UT 05:00 Harris (Whittier, CA, 19" reflector, x100)
observed the appearance of a ring to the south east of Ross D. Cameron
says that 7 persons have seen this over a 2.5 year period. The Cameron
1978 catalog ID=801 and weight=1. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Copernicus 1955 Jul 28 UT 20:20 Observed by Firsoff (Somerset, England,
6.5" reflector x200) "Great brilliance of the terraces in E(IAU?) wall
system(?) gets specular refl. (he gave 0820UT, but must have meant
2020" NASA catalog weight=4 (high). NASA catalog No. #600.
M.C. Cook (Frimley, UK) got an abnormally low brightness reading for
Proclus, despite nearby Censorinus being normal. Crater Extinction
Device used. The Cameron 2006 Extension catalog ID was 163 and the
weight was 3. The ALPO/BAA weight was 2 too.
Plato 1976 Sep 04 UT 02:35-03:35 Observed by Porter
(Sarragansett?, Rhode Island, USA, 6" reflector x100, S=5,
T=?) "At 0235h albedo of floor was est. at 3. At 0325h the pt.
was albedo =1, 2 whole steps darker than earlier & noticeable
to the obs. 10-15 min later it returned to normal. (the few
meas. of albedo for this age were 1.5-2 which suggests that
the meas. of 3 was the anomalous one. Another pt. did
darken -- as reported). NASA catalog weight=3. NASA catalog ID
#1448. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Ross D vicinity 1964 Apr 22 UT 05:43-0637 Observed by Cross et
al. (Whittier, CA, USA, 19" reflector, x800-1200 & filters, S=7-
8, T=1) "Gas cloud over it & its companion; everywhere else was
fine detail" NASA catalog weight=5. NASA catalog ID #809.
ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Daniell 1979 Jul 04 UT 20:40-21:19 Observed by Saxton (UK?, 216mm
refractor?, seeing III, transparency: Good) "noticed that the east
end of Daniell was bright and fuzzy and had somewhat poorly defined
edge to the bright part. A sketch was made, and possibly shows
the same as in past reports" BAA Lunar Section Report. Cameron
2006 extension catalog ID=59 and weight=3. Observer located in
Leeds, England and used a 9" reflector x250. Seeing=III and
transparency=good. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
H. Davies (Llamandel, Swansea, UK, using a 3" refractor,
detected a short duration reddish hue along the inner NE-NW?
rim (4-7 O'Clock location. Sketch supplied to Foley (BAA
coordinator). No similar effect seen elsewhere. A.C. Cook
(Frimley, UK) detected spurious colour on several craters,
including Plato that night. Cameron 2006 Catalog Extension ID=
337 and weight=0. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Colour seen, mostly blueness on south rim and exterior of south
rim at Bullialdus crater. Blueness seen too on Plato on inner SSW
rim, but no colour reported on any other craters. Seeing III,
12" reflector used x200 and x360.
Colour seen, mostly blueness on inner SSW rim. Blueness also seen
on south rim and exterior of south rim at Bullialdus crater. No colour
reported on any other craters. Seeing III, 12" reflector used x200 and
x360.
Arsyukhin and others (Moscow, USSR), with naked eye and binouculars
saw three dark spots suddenly appear on Mare Crisium and disappear
approximately 30 minutes later. Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID=145
and catalog weight=4. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Arsyukhin and others (Moscow, USSR), with naked eye and binouculars
saw TLP activity in Plato that Cameron thinks confirms what UK
observers saw later. Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID=145
and catalog weight=4. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Alphonsus 1966 Apr 01 UT(?) 03:00-03:20 Observed by Jenning,
Harris (Coral Estates, CA, USA, 12" reflector) "Red patch from
c.p. to W. wall (no confirm. from Corralitos obs. moon blink
device & obs. at that time)" NASA catalog weight=3. NASA
catalog ID #924. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Agrippa and vicinity 1878 Dec 04 UT 20:00? Observed by Capron (France?)
"Odd, misty look as if vapor were in or about them" NASA catalog
weight=3 (average). NASA catalog ID #209.
Plato 1982 Jun 02 UT 22:00. Mobberley could not see the
central craterlet on the floor of Plato tonight. Foley notes
that he could only just see the central craterlet on nights of
2-5th Jun and it was of reduced in brightness from normal.
North reported that the floor seemed nearly black, but
brighter in a green filter (x144 magnification used). All
three observers compared the Plato area to other areas for
reference. All the above seems normal, apart from the floor
being brighter in the green filter. Cameron 2006 extension
catalog ID 170 and weight=5. BAA/ALPO weight=1.
A blue tinge was seen inside and outside the crater
perimeter. The surrounding halo lost brightness that
was observed on 1993 Jan 29. Observed on Apr 19, 20 and 28th.
Cameron 2006 extension catalog ID=213 and weight=5.
ALPO/BAA weight=3.
On 1990 Jan 07 at UT 20:20-20:58 G.North (Herstmonceux, UK) thought
that he detected dullness in Torricelli B crater - Cameron comments
that this cannot be shadow). The Cameron 2006 catalog ID=386 and the
weight=3. ALPO\/BAA weight=2.
Brilliant blue color seen at first for seconds, later for min
2h later, in blue filter. Cameron 1978 catalog weight=4 (high).
Cameron 1978 catalog ID 572.
Tycho 2971 Nov 28 UT 21:58-22:05 observed by D.B. Taylor (Dundee,
UK, darker area inside the crater (NE and SE floor) in a Moon
Blink device. However the observer does not report through which
filter ir was darker. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Plato 1971 Oct 30 UT 19:35-20:55 E.Watkins (Braintree, UK, 4.5"
reflector, x45,x150, x225), thought he saw a faint patch at
19:35 and it still was visible at 19:40. At 19:50-19:55 he saw
what may have been the remainder. At 20:55 he noticed a shadow
in the area. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Peice A (Swift=IAU name?) 1927 May 12 UT 22:03 Observed by Wilkins
(England, 15" reflector) "Complete obscuration of crater. Saw no trace
of it. It was vis. May 11 & faint on May 13. 3x in 1948 Moore saw whole
area misty gray & devoid of detail, whereas surroundings were sharp &
clear. Birt also found it invis. at times in late 1800's" NASA catalog
weight=4. NASA catalog ID #394. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Plato 1906 Mar 06 UT 22:00? Observed by Fauth (Germany? 6" refractor)
"Color (brightness?) greatly enhanced as it was to be on the next
nite" NASA catalog weight=3 (average). NASA catalog ID #324.
Aristarchus Area 2004 Nov 22 UT 04:58-05:49 Observed by Gray
(Winemucca, NV, USA, 152mm f/9 refractor, seeing 4-5, trasparency 4-5,
x114, x228) "Blinked Herodotus with Wratten filters Blue 38A and Red
25. The illuminated west crater wall stood out brilliantly in blue
light, much more so than in white light. This was true also of
Aristarchus. Red light did not increase contrasts in Herodotus any more
than they were in white light. Shadows in Herodotus appeared as black
as the night west of the terminator and remained that way throughout
the observing period. No TLP seen in Herodotus tonight. A possible TLP
was seen to the west of Herodotus near the terminus of Schroters
Valley. It was noted at the beginning of the observing period that
there were four very bright spots of light, one near the end of
Schroters Valley, the other three grouped together a little farther
north. Although not far from the terminator they were definitely east
of it. It was noted that all of them nearly vanished in the Blue 38A
filter while Aristarchus and the rim of Herodotus gleamed brilliantly.
At 5:19UT it was noted that the most brilliant of the four lights, the
one near the terminus of Schroters Valley, had faded almost to
invisibility in white light. When first seen it had been brighter than
Aristarchus. It remained very dim after this through the remainder of
the observing period, and was unchanged at 7:35-7:49UT when I again
examined the area. The other three bright spots remained brilliant and
unchanged."
Aristarchus 1973 Aug 10 UTC 20:14 observed by Baumeister
(48.63N, 9.25E, 110mm reflector, T=2, S=2) "Orange to red
colours at the crater floor disappeared until 21:04" -
Hilbrecht and Kuveler, Earth, Moon & Planets, 30 (1984),
p53-61. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Plato 1973 Aug 10 UT 22:45 observed by Robinson (Devon, UK).
Observer noticed that the lighter areas on the floor were more
distinct in red than in the blue filter. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
All observers saw a blue tinge seen inside and outside the
crater. Marshall observed a bright spot in the middle of
the crater floor and thought perhaps that it was a central
peak. No central peak can be found on Lunar Orbiter images.
Cameron 2006 Catalog extension ID=214 and weight=5. ALPO/BAA
weight=4.
Proclus 1976 Sep 06 UT 02:00 Observed by Bartlett (Baltimore, MD, USA,
4.5" reflector 45-300x, S=3, T=5) "Nothing vis. on floor of 2deg
brightness. Usually floor ray & Proc. A are vis. at this col. & c.p. is
5 deg bright. (must have been 2 deg tonite)." NASA catalog weight=4.
NASA catalog ID #1450.
Gassendi 1939 Aug 27 UT 02:00 Observed by Haas? (NM? USA, 12"
reflector?) "NE part of c.p. was I=6.4, compared with I=9.4 on 9/28/39
(see #462) under similar cond.@ NASA catalog weight=4 (high). NASA
catalog ID# 458.
Cobra Head, Aristarchus 1964 Feb 25 UT 02:37-02:38, 02:39-02:42
Observed by Budine (Binghamton, New York, USA, 4" refractor, x250, S=6,
T=4) "Red flashes" NASA catalog weight=3 (average). NASA catalog ID #
802.
Proclus 1972 Dec 17 UTC 18:30 Observed by Farrant (Cambridge, England,
8.5" reflector) "Crater appeared very bright (Apollo 17 Watch)." NASA
catalog weight=2 (low). NASA catalog ID #1359.
Blanco, J. Vidal, of Gijon, Spain (3" refractor x72)
noticed an unfamiliar very bright center near to Encke.
Cameron suspects that this was Encke B crater
on the basis that it is a prominent small crater
near to Encke. Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID=410
and weight=2. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Daniell 1979 Jul 06 UT 21:15-22:30 Crick (Belgium, 6"
reflector, Seeing=II and transparency=good.) noticed
obscuration on a bright spot on the south east wall. This spot
was quite prominent through a red Wratten 25 filter. The floor
was very dark. Other craters were checked and were normal. A
sketch was supplied and the position was the same as in other
earlier reports. Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID=60 and
weight=3. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Plato 1987 Feb 10 UT 21:05-22:10. M. Cook (Frimley, UK), "NE
ray distinct & also floor E of it, not distinct as on Dec 13 &
Jan 11, while March 10, 11 & 12 seen by Price, North, Peters,
Foley & M Cook, where rim was clear and sharp." - quote from
the 2006 Cameron Catalog extension - TLP ID=297 and weight=5.
Cameron gives the observers confirming this TLP as: M. Cook,
G. North and Davies. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
In 1949 Nov 03 UT 01:06 J.Bartlett (3.5" refractor, x100) noted that
the floor of Herodotus was very dark, the east wall was very bright,
and the floor contained a central bright peak. The BAA/ALPO weight=3.
Kepler 1954 Nov 07 UT 23:20 Observed by F.A. Lugo (Caracus,
Venezuela, 3.5" scope x125) Bright red star=like point just
outside E.wall - visible for an hour. NASA catalog weight=3.
NASA catalog ID #580. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Aristillus 1972 Dec 17 UTC 21:50-22:20 observed by Berger (51.5N, 9E,
60mm refractor, T=2, S=3) "Diffuse bright cloud in the NE corner of the
crater" - Hilbrecht and Kuveler, Earth, Moon & Planets, 30 (1984), p53-
61.
On 1993 Sep 28 at UT 04:30-06:10 S.Beaumont (Cambridge, UK)observed
that the north east edge of Herodotus appeared as a "highland area
spilling over into" the Cobra's Head border or "overlook". The shadow
on the elevation was contiguous with a similar shadow over the Cobra's
Head "like a darkening of the terrain. Shadow appears softer diffused
without sharp bounds of most Lunar shadows. sketch. S. edge of crater
started to appear at 0615". The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=468 and the
weight=2. The ALPO/BAA weight=1 as the date or UT are wrong.
Plato 1906 Mar 07 UT 22:00? Observed by Fauth (Germany? 6" refractor)
"Color (brightness?) greatly enhanced as on the previous nite" NASA
catalog weight=3 (average). NASA catalog ID #324.
Aristarchus-Cobra Head, 1967 Nov 15 UT 05:40-06:00 Observed by Cross,
Tombaugh (Las Cruces, NM, 12" reflector x800) and Harris (Tucson, AZ),
and Dunlap (Organ Pass, NM, 24" reflector with Moonblink). "Obs.
reddish color N. & E. of Aris. & more intense color nr. E.(IAU?) rim of
Cobra Head. Red color nr.C.H. confirmed by Tombaugh. Obtained 10 photos
between 0543-0549h in 3 spectral bands (blue, yellow, red, & integ.
light). No change dur. obs. per. but spot got smaller at moments of
good seeing. Isodensitometry of photos. At Corralitos 0152-0155 on 24-
in image intensifier & filter sys. photoos at 0320-0330h. Harris at
Tucson got spectra. Neither of latter 2 show anything unusual. Its
edges were nebulous even at best seeing. Size @ that of Cobra's Head."
NASA catalog weight=5 (very good). NASA catalog ID #1053.
Peter Foley (Kent, UK, 8" reflector, seeing=II) noticed that
the floor beneath the north wall, and the area over the north
wall were indistinct (almost out of focus). Despite looking
elsewhere in the crater and surrounds, no other blurring
(obscuration of detail) could be seen, indeed everywhere else
was sharp and detailed. Foley tried several eyepieces but this
made no difference. He used a crater extinction device but
found no variations in brightness. There was a slight
darkening when he used a red filter in the Moon Blink device.
The obscuration effect weakened between UT20:56 and 21:10,
was difficult to see at 21:13 and had finished by 00:15.
Patrick Moore (12" reflector, Dublin, Ireland) saw nothing
unusual when he started observing at UT 22:00. Cameron says
"Photos marked at location of phenomenon". Cameron 2006
extension catalog ID=37 and weight=5. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
On 1821 Jan 16 at UT 21:00 S. Cooke (Stonehouse, UK) An
effusion of smoke effect, which lasted about a minute, seen.
It appeared like the fluttering of a bird and passed over the
Moon before it evaporated, and must have been foreshortened,
as it seemed in effect to have passed over the whole disc,
starting from west of Menelaus, and near Plinius. ALPO/BAA
weight=1.
On 1980 Apr 28, Louderback (South Bend, WA, USA using a 8" reflector
and a 2.5" refractor) observed a very bright reg region on top of the
south west rim of Aristarchus crater. This was on the same side as the
ray system between Aristarchus and Herodotus. Louderback noticed some
chromatic aberation - blue where he had seen the red patch before.
Louderback suspects chromatic aberation was the cause although did not
see red in that region ever again. "Patch was between his observation
points A and C. Point C was 5 points brighter in the red filter than in
the blue." A sketch was made. Cameron suspects that the TLP was real.
Cameron 2006 TLP catalog extension ID=92 and weight=3. ALPO/BAA
weight=2.
Louderback observed that the south west wall was a creamy deep yellow.
There was also strong fluorescent blue on the west wall of the Cobra
Head - Schroter's Valley area and this was similar to the violet glare
seen on Aristarchus at times. Violet was seen between Aristarchus and
the Cobra Head. Seeing coditions were poor. Brightening of a point
near C occurred roughly every 10-15 seconds and lasted 0.5 sec -
(Cameron concludes that this was not due to the Earth's atmosphere).
A 0.2 step drop in brightness was seen on point A (twin spots).
Point C had reduced by 0.6 steps. Elsewhere was stable in brightness.
Cameron 2006 catalog ID=281 and weight=4. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Aristarchus normal in red and blue filters however the
Cobra Head part of Schroter's Valley was brighter in blue.
Indeed it was very dull in red - Louderback says that this
was not surprising as the whole areas around Aristarchus is
brighter in blue. Louderback is an experienced observer
of the Aristarchus area of more than 10 years. Cameron 2006
extended catalogID=63 and weight=1. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Manilius 1939 Jun 30 UT 06:05 Observed by Haas (NM?, USA, 12"?
reflector) "Dark area in S. part was I=2.0 but was I=3.7 on 7/30/39.
Obs. conditions were very similar." NASA catalog weight=4 (high). NASA
catalog ID #449.
Plato 1873 Apr 10 UTC 21:00? Observed by Schmidt (Athens, Greece, 6"
refractor) "Under high sun, 2 faint clouds in E. part of crater."
Aristarchus 1975 Sep 18 UT 21:00? Observed by Foley (Kent,
England, 12" reflector) "Deep blue-viol. spot in NW (IAU?)
interior corner." NASA catalog weight=3. NASA catalog ID #1414.
ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Aristarchus 1969 Nov 22 UT 18:20-21:13 Observed by D. Cutts
(Chester, Eng., 8.5" reflector, x200), Moore (Sussex, Eng., 12"
reflector x425), Miles (Coventry, Eng. 5" refractor), Delaye and
Jourdran (Marseilles, Fr., 8" reflector) "Pulsating patch on W.
wall between 2 radial bands. Faded by 2000h. Returned to normal.
(Cutts). Miles saw strong pink in whole interior at 2112h.
Strong blink. No blink there at 2210-2212h. Gass., Grim., &
Plato were neg. Delaye & Joudan photog. it as very bright. Moore
got neg. results at 2135. (confirm. of activity?, Apollo 12
watch)." NASA catalog weight=5. NASA catalog ID #1226. ALPO/BAA
weight=3.
Gassendi 1976 Oct 04 UT 21:30 P. Moore (Selsey, UK, x400,
seeing poor) observed redness in the c.p. area. The ALPO/BAA
weight=1.
On 1982 Jun 05 at 22:00? UT, Chapman (UK, using a 12" reflector), again
using a x2 yellow filter, noticed that the central craterlet
detectabilty changed such that sometimes it was visible and sometimes
not. Foley (Kent, UK)noticed that the central craterlet could only just
be seen between June 2 to June 5 and was much less discernable than
during the previous lunation. No CED brightness measurements made. The
floor of Plato was noted to be very dark though. Cameron 2006 catalog
ID=172 and weight=4. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Aristarchus 1965 May 15 UTC 01:40-02:15 Observed by Weresuik, McClench,
Johnson (Pt. Tobacco, MD, USA, 16" reflector x240, S=F, T=G) and Delano
(Massachusetts, USA, 12" reflector). "Crater had color(red?) detected
by Trident MB & photos were obtained. There were pulsations. Delano saw
E. wall of crater unusually bright (confirm. if at same time)." NASA
catalog weight=5 (very good). NASA catalog ID #876.
Eratosthenes 1976 Sep 08 UTC 04:29 Observed by Bartlett (Baltimore, MD,
USA, 4.5" reflector 45-225x, S=5-4, T=5) "Psuedo-shadow X3 was present
but X disappeared from wall(same intensity?) which was rated 4 deg.
Disappearance of X so unexpected that he examined inner S wall very
carefully & was certain it was free from psuedo-shad. Had vanished
within 24h. Other pseudo-shadows showed no change. X reappeared next
nite. (X must have been 4deg; &this is much higher than any other
meas.). Variability of wall shadows may habe been what Pickering saw,
suggests Bartlett." Cameron 1978 TLP catalog weight=4 and catalog ID
1452. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Aristarchus, Cobra Head, 1969 Dec 23 UT 05:19-05:34 Observed by
A.R. Taylor (Buckinghamshire, UK, 8.5" reflector, 240x, Wratten
25 and 80B) Strong blink in crater at 0519. All traces gone by
0534. Could only see in filters, Plato, Copernicus, Gassendi all
normal. Obscur. also in Cob. Head." NASA catalog weight=4. NASA
catalog ID #1230. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
On 1992 Oct 10 at 18:57-19:04 UT I.S.Brukhanov (of Minsk, Belarus,
using a 6" refractor x40 and x98) saw a star like point inside Plato
crater of similar brightness to the central peak of Alphonsus. The
event lasted 90 seconds before weakening and vanishing completely at
19:04UT. Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID=455 and weight=3.
ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Aristarchus area 1955 Sep 30 UTC 20:45 Observed by Firsoff (Somerset,
England, 6.5" reflector, x200) "Area showed a westward yellow smear,
looked darkish in red, indicating presence of green." NASA catalog
weight=4 (high). NASA catalog ID #614. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
David Darling observed bright glittering on Aristarchus. This
was followed by a flare up in brightness at 00:38:05 UT in the
comet-like ray area of the crater equivalent in intensity to the
central peak. Then he saw another one on the north east rim of
Aristarchus of the same brightness. A third flare was seen at
00:49UT in south of Herodotus, on the comet-like ray. Another
two flares were observed at 00:56UT on the north west rim of
Aristarchus. Darling suspects that these effects were due
to seeing effects and Cameron agrees. However Weier suspects
that they were TLP? Brightness measurements by Weier were for
the south west rim of Herodotus 8.0, for a spot at the Cobra's
Head 9.0 and 7.5 for C.H. Cameron apparently did not see the flashes
but did suspect that the interior of Aristarchus was a bit unusual.
Don Spain did not see anything unsual at all. Cameron 2006 extended
catalog ID=380 and the observation weight=3. The ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Aristarchus 1967 Dec 16 UTC 22:00? Observed by Farrant (Cambridge,
England, 8" reflector) "Crater took on an unusual appearance on inner
NE (ast. ?) wall. Showed a very pale blue & the opposite wall a pale
red color seen in no other features. Lasted only 10m & survived a
change of eyepieces." Seeing=I (Antoniadi). NASA catalof weight=3
(average). NASA catalog ID #1056.
On 1978 Aug 18 at UT 22:00 Coates (England?, UK, 3" refractor,
seeing=II) found that the inner bands of Aristarchus were hard to see,
this was odd because the seeing conditions were good and he usually
sees them? However he did not believe that there was any obscuration
going on. The Cameron 2006 catalog ID=37 and weight=0. The ALPO/BAA
weight=1.
On 2002 Mar 29 at 02:20-02:38UT C. Brook (Plymouth, UK, 60mm refractor,
x120 - no cloud, slight haze, no wind, seeing good) noticed during
first part of observing period that Aristarchus was getting steadily
brighter, very much brighter than Proclus. This continued until 02:36UT
when it dimmed suddenly over a period of about a minute or so. No
colour effects seen. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 2002 mar 29 at 02:20-02:38UT C. Brook (Plymouth, UK, 60mm refractor,
x120 - no cloud, slight haze, no wind, seeing good) noticed during
first part of observing period that Aristarchus was getting steadily
brighter, very much brighter than Proclus. This continued until 02:36UT
when it dimmed suddenly over a period of about a minute or so. No
colour effects seen. ALPO/BAA weight=2. Just as an after thought - was
it Aristarchus that was varying, or Proclus?
Louderback, of South Bend, WA, USA observed a bright area over
Mons Anguis and Eimmart - it resembled a comet and had a bluish
colour and varied in brightness. The colour was confirmed as it
was not seen in a red filter but could be seen in blue and white
light. Other features were checked but did not show anything
similar although a violet glare was suspected in the blue filter. A
sketch was made. Observer made Eimmart 8 in brightness at 07:30UT.
Noted that the area around Eimmart appeared opaque at times and less so
at other times. At 08:52UT the phenomenon was seen again. On May 2nd
a bright spot was still seen in the region but it was not changing
dimensions. During the observation on Apr 30th the atmospheric
transparency was excellent. A 2.5" refractor was used. Reference:
Personal communication from Louderback to Cameron on 1980 Jul 16th.
The Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID of this TLP was 93 and the
weight was 4. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Proclus 2002 Mar 29 UT 05:27-05:36 Observed by Darling (Sun Praire, WI,
USA, 12.5" f/5 Newtonian, +Rotating polaroid visual densitometer)
"Observations made following telephone alert call about Brook's report.
Aristarchus, Proclus and Censorinus monitored for brightness variations
from 04:41-05:37UT. Apart form a change in transparency due to cirrus
cloud at 05:11-05:18, there were significant dimmings of the
brightnesses of Proclus at 05:27. Aristarchus remained constant - this
suggested that Clive Brook's earlier report was not a TLP in
Aristarchus, but possibly in Proclus which he was using as a
comparison" ALPO Lunar Section Report. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Censorinus 2002 Mar 29 UT 05:27-05:36 Observed by Darling (Sun Praire,
WI, USA, 12.5" f/5 Newtonian, +Rotating polaroid visual densitometer)
"Observations made following telephone alert call about Brook's report.
Aristarchus, Proclus and Censorinus monitored for brightness variations
from 04:41-05:37UT. Apart form a change in transparency due to cirrus
cloud at 05:11-05:18, there were significant dimmings of the brightness
of Censorinus at 05:36UT. Aristarchus remained constant" ALPO Lunar
Section Report. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Manillus 1955 Aug 03 UTC 21:00 Observed by Firsoff (Sommerset, England,
6.5" reflector, x200) "Maniluus very bright in all colors, especially
blue, extraordinarily so" NASA catalog weight=4 (good). NASA catalog ID
#602.
Timocharis 1955 Aug 03 UTC 21:00 Observed by Firsoff (Sommerset,
England, 6.5" reflector, x200) "Crater was bright in blue, seemed large
& diffused." NASA catalog weight=4 (good). NASA catalog ID #602.
On 1978 Aug 19 at UT02:45-04:00 Porter (Naragansetts, RI, USA, using a
6" reflector, Seing = 6/10) noticed blue on the north east corner of
Aristarchus and an orange glow on the south east wall. They detected no
movement or change in brightness. The observer used both eyes, to make
sure it was not an eye defect, and three filters: red Wratten 25, blue
Wratten 82 and Violet Wratten 47. Porter found that the colours faded
for a duration of 5 minutes and then returned. Their right eye gave a
good view and using their left eye they suspected that it was 0.5 steps
brighter than the remainder of the crater. The suspected colour
remained visible, even under moments of good seeing conditions. The
colour eventually faded over time and was eventually gone. Porter
reportd seein gcolour here on the following night. Apparently other
bright spots showed no colour. Fitton suggests that the filters used
confirm that the south east wass was definitely red in colour. The
Cameron 2006 catalog ID=37 and the weight=0. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Aristarchus 1973 Nov 10 UTC 20:00? Observed by Coates (England, 8"
reflector x200, Moon at gigh altitude above horizon). "Attracted to
crater because of an orange hue extending towards Herod. Has seen this
at other times. Thinks not a LTP, but actual color on ground."NASA
catalog weight=2 (low). NASA catalog ID #1381.
On 1988 May 11 (UT 20:30-20:55) C. Brook (Plymouth, UK, 60mm
refractor, x28) found Aristarchus to be brighter than he would
have expected. Compared to Proclus and Tycho. He observed from
20:55-22:38 and found it to be normal in brightness over this
time. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Aristarchus-Herodotus 1969 Jan 04 UT 03:00-03:45 Observed by
Taboada (Mexico) & Corralitos Observatory (Organ Pass, NM, USA,
24" reflector + Moon Blink) "Brightness increased slightly
around Herod. & cleft (S.V?) became darker than previous day.
The dark gray & pink formed yellowish at 0345h in whole region
of Aris. Bluing around crater in Corralitos MB (photos?)
(confirm. of activity at Aris.?)" NASA catalog weight=5. NASA
catalog ID #1115. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Aristarchus-Herodotus 1969 Jan 04 UT 03:00-03:45 Observed by
Taboada (Mexico) & Corralitos Observatory (Organ Pass, NM,
USA, 24" reflector + Moon Blink) "Brightness increased
slightly around Herod. & cleft (S.V?) became darker than
previous day. The dark gray & pink formed yellowish at 0345h
in whole region of Aris. Bluing around crater in Corralitos
MB (photos?) (confirm. of activity at Aris.?)" NASA catalog
weight=5. NASA catalog ID #1115. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1970 Nov 14 UT20:10 J.Coates (Burnley Astromical Society,
8.5" reflector, x102 and x204) saw a dirty green colour on the
NW region of the crater, in patches, with a green area nearby.
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1984 Feb 18 at 05:35UT Moseley (Coventry, UK, 6" reflector,
x120, seeing II-III, transparency very poor to good) found that
the crater was difficult to define. However observing conditions
variable. P. Moore observed that the crater was normal at
04:00UT. Moseley found the crater well defined later. Cameron
2006 catalog extension ID=242 and weight=3. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1992 Jul 16 at UT 03:32-09:31 D. Louderback (South Bend, WA, USA,
3" refractor, x134) detected yellow on the southern rim of Aristarchus,
and the colour looked "darker" through a yellow filter and the region
was "duller" than normal. The region was 1 intesnsity step brighter on
the 2nd measurement, "on all points in it". The comet tail-like ray had
3 sections and was "mottled" in appearance. Finally the Cobra Head
region had possible variations in brightness. The cameron 2006 catalog
ID=451 and the weight=3. The ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Copernicus 1975 Jul 24 UT 22:52 Observed by Robinson (Teignmouth,
England, 10" ? reflector or 4" refractor?) "Copernicus indistinct in
red and blue filters" NASA catalog weight=3 (average). NASA catalog ID
#1409.
Fracastorius 1975 Jul 24 UT 22:52 Observed by Robinson (Teignmouth,
England, 10" ? reflector or 4" refractor?) "Fracastorius had a blink
(red or blue?)" NASA catalog weight=3 (average). NASA catalog ID #1409.
Tycho 1975 Jul 24 UT 22:52 Observed by Robinson (Teignmouth, England,
10" ? reflector or 4" refractor?) "Tycho indistinct in red and blue
filters" NASA catalog weight=3 (average). NASA catalog ID #1409.
Aristarchus 1954 Nov 12 UTC 02:20-03:05 Observed by Bartlett
(Baltimore, MD, USA, S=5-6, T=3-4) "Blue-violet glare on EWBS &
whole length of E. wall. Suspected viol. tint on VA; uncertain @
m" NASA catalog weight=4. This had faded later by 05:07. NASA
catalog ID #582. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1996 Jul 31 at 22:40UT P. Moore (Selsey, UK, 15" reflector, x300)
noticed a lack of detail in the Cape Agarum area - he would normally
have expected to have seen some craterlets. However he would not rate
this observation much because the seeing was only III and he does not
think that it was an obscuration. However just in case he wanted to
record this report in the archives. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Alphazen Alpha 1972 Oct 23 UT 22:10?-22:13? (Stoke-on-Trent, UK,
21cm Newtonian, x217, seeing very good). Flickering colours seen
on the north field of Alhazen Alpha mountain. Above UTs
estimated by the observer, but the duration of the effect was 3
minutes. Colouration centred on the hills that run north to
south between Mare Anguis and Mare Crisium. The colour
alternated from east to west about 2 or 3 times per second. The
colour was not apparent to the north or south, or indeed on any
other features. Telescope field of view moved, but effect stayed
in the same place on the Moon. Moon't terminator scanned for 15
minutes afterwards, but the effect did not recur. The colour
seen was mostly red, with a band of orange, and a strip of
yellow nearest the hills, the proportions being 6:2:1. The bands
seemed to arc up steep above the Moon's surface and flatten out
over the mare surface either side of the hill features. No
filters were used in the observation. Observer suspects some
kind of diffraction spectrum to explain the larger dispersion in
the red end of the spectrum. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Schroter's Valley: Cobra Head 1824 Nov 08 UTC 00:00? Observed by
Gruithuisen (Munich, Germany) "Mingling of all colors in small spots.
Described a violet glimmer near Cobra Head & plateau that spreads;
starts just after sunrise. Cameron 1978 catalog weight=4 and catalog
ID=103. The ALPO/BAA catalog weight=3.
Aristarchus 1968 Dec 07 UT 07:00? observed by Corralitos Observatory
(Organ Pass, NM, USA, 24" reflector+Moon Blink) "Bluing around 3
craters, strongest at Aris. Lasted several days. Photos show 30% more
intensity in blue filter than in red or neutral. Moon's declination
northerly. Obs. think it was due to atm. effects" NASA catalog weight=5
(very high). NASA catalog ID #1105.
On 1968 Dec 07 at UT 07:00? Corralitos Observatory (Organ Pass, NM,
USA, 24" reflector and Moon Blink device) observed a bluing around
three craters, one of which was Kepler. This effect lasted several
days. Photographs were taken that show30% more intensity in the blue
filter than in red or neutral. The Moon's decination was northerly. The
observers suspect that it was an atmospheric efect and not a TLP. The
Cameron 1978 catalog ID=1105 and the weight=5. The ALPO/BAA weight=3.
On 1990 Jan 13 at UT 22:15-23:05 J. Pedler (Bristol, UK, seeing=III and
transparency=excellent, no spurious colour) detected a blue region on
the north of Aristarchus, varying in sharpness/diffuseness. The crater
rim in this region could not be descerned. Eleswhere the crater rim was
normal as too were other features. When a Moon blink device was used,
no colour blink was detected, however through the blue filter the
suspected area was bright and the crater rim indistinct. Whereas
through the red filter the area looked perfectly normal. At 22:30UT the
effect had vanished and everywhere was normal. The Cameron 2006 catalog
ID=388 and the weight=5. The ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Proclus 1956 Jul 25 UTC 06:16-06:33 Observed by Bartlett
(Baltimore, MD, USA, 5" reflector, x180, S=3-5, T=4) "C.p.
distinctly vis. within floor shadeo, est. 5 deg bright but no
trace of it at col. 122.37deg in Oct, '55(Oct. 4?)." NASA
catalog weight=4 (good). NASA catalog ID #645. ALPO/BAA
weight=2.
Gassendi 1940 Jul 22 UT 05:00 Observed by Haas (NM?, USA, 12"
reflector?) "Largest bright spot in SE part of floor had I=8.6,
but 6+ on other dates. (see #472, 474 & 475). (8.6 is normal?)"
NASA catalog weight=4. NASA catalog ID #469. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Four bright spots seen in Mare Crisium. There was also peculiar
behaviour of the terminator. Source: Midlehurst 1968 catalog TLP ID=16.
Ref Web 1962 p62-76. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1990 Jan 14 at UT 01:14-01:55 M.C. Cook (Frimley, UK, seeing=poor)
observed that Aristarchus did not appear normal for this illumination.
the northern half of Aristarchus was "2x>" than the southern half of
the crater. There were two white patches of apron material near to the
crater Herodotus that were 50% of the brightness of the southern half
of Aristarchus. Furthermore the southern half of Aristarchus had a
circle - "dull patch on inner S wall with a bright point shining
through it. (Bartlett's EWBS?)". The Cameron 2006 catalog ID=389 and
the weight=4. The ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Conspicuous bright spot seen on 6th. Also seen on 7th, absent on 8th.
Cloud-like effect where light had been (on 8th). Cameron 1978 catalog
TLP ID No.=139 and weight=3.
Daniell 1894 Feb 23 UT 00:00? Observed by Krieger (Germany)
"Strong, brownish-red coppery hue." NASA catalog weight=4 and
catalog ID #281. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
1894 Feb 23 UT 00:00(?) Posidonius N. Wall observed by
Krieger (Germany) "Strong, brownish-red coppery hue." NASA
catalog weight=4 and catalog ID #281. ALPO/BAA weight=3.