On 2008 Oct 19 during 05:40-06:30UT D. Holt of Chipping, UK observed an
anomalous patch of illumination just to the west of the centre of the
Posidonius J crater. It is possible that this is just some high ground
on the floor protruding through the shadow filled crater at sunset.
Therefore this has been assigned a weight of 1 for now, just in case it
is a TLP - until proven otherwise.
On 1991 Jul 31 at UT 07:50 D. Louderback (South Bend, WA, USA, 3"
refractor) observed that the south floor of Aristarchus was wellow -
"almost gold, spilled over S wall on ray toward Herodotus". Cameron
comments that Bartlett often reported a yellow floor but not a spill of
the colour over to the external ray. Cameron also comments that
Louderback's refractor would refract more in blue light than in yellow,
therefore she did not think that it was due to chromatic aberation. The
Cameron 2006 catalog ID=431 and the weight=3. The ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1991 Jul 31 at UT 07:50 D. Louderback (South Bend, WA, USA, 3"
refractor) found that all of Mons Piton was "unusually dark". Points D,
C (E and S resp), usually brightest points, but this time were not
bright. "Whole mt was as dark as W wall usually is at this time. In
violet filter Piton disappeared completely, but was a little brighter
in red filter and points D & G showed. Color not seen by eye. No albedo
measured. Suggests red event." Cameron rules out chromatic aberation
from Louderback's refractor. The Cameron 2006 catalog ID=431 and the
weight=3. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Plato 1975 Jun 28/29 UT 23:00-01:20. Foley (Wilmington, UK, 12"
reflector, seeing, III, good clarity transparency). At 23:00,
00:30, and 01:15 blue was seen on the inner wall:floor southern
boundary, and red on the corresponding northern floor:wall
boundary. However by 01:20, blue was now on the S-NW floor:wall
boundary, and red on the NE-SE floor:wall boundary. Atmospheric
spectral dispersion existed in many regions, but did not change
like the colours in Plato. Similar appearance craters such as
Grimaldi, Schickard, and Riccioli, were checked for a similar
change in colour, but no change was noticed in these. ALPO/BAA
weight=1.
Plato 1975 Jun 29/30 UT 23:05-00:30. Foley (Wilmington, UK, 12"
reflector, seeing, III, good clarity transparency). At 23:05,
blue was seen on the inner wall:floor southern boundary, and red
on the corresponding northern floor:wall boundary. However by
00:30, blue was now on the W floor:wall boundary, and red on the
E floor:wall boundary. Atmospheric spectral dispersion existed
in many regions, but did not change like the colours in Plato.
Similar appearance craters such as Grimaldi, Schickard, and
Riccioli, were checked for a similar change in colour, but no
change was noticed in these. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Aristarchus 2004 Dec 03 UT 00:00-01:00 Observed by Brook (Plymouth,
England, 60mm OG x120) "Fluctuation in the brightness in Aristarchus
still present but less pronounced than yesterday. Also saw the bright
short ray on the opposite side to the main ray in Aristarchus that
Amato saw yesterday - but this may be normal?" BAA Lunar Section
report.
M.C. Cook (Frimley, UK, seeing=III-II) noticed that the crater had a
blue/green colour and that this varied, filling a large circular patch,
brightly illuminating to the ESE-SSE (IAU?) spilling over the wall and
the rim. Shadows inside the crater were large and elongated. The filter
response was greater in the blue than through a yellow or red
Microfiche. Spurious colour was noticed elsewhere but not in
Aristarchus. Cameron 2006 extension catalog ID=313 and weight=3.
ALPO/BAA weight=3
Eratosthenes 1976 Jun 20 UT 07:57 Observed by Bartlett
(Baltimore, MD, USA, 4.5" refractor, 40-450x, S=6.5, T=4-3)
"Floor covered with shadow & c.p. seen as 5deg bright spot.
Another minute spot 5deg bright on SE floor in shadow. (only low
hills on floor in SE. spot on terrace?" NASA catalog weight=4
(high). NASA catalog ID 1436.
Eratosthenes 1976 Aug 18 UT 06:12 Observed by Bartlett (Baltimore, MD,
USA, 4.5" refractor, 45, 225x, S=6, T=3-2) "Again, c.p. is vis. within
shadow but much brighter than on Aug, 4 (4 deg) & similar to June at
same col. The 2nd bright spot seen in June was not seen tonite.
(roughness on walls seen in LO IV & V pics show why these pseudo-
shadows appear)." NASA catalog weight=4 (high). NASA catalog ID #1445.
Aristarchus 1969 Jan 12 UT 12:00 Observed by Taboada (Mexico,
Seeing Excellent) "Region showed same characteristics as
previous days, perhaps a little darker color brown but more
remarkable. Used red, blue & green filters & difference in color
noted in & out of region. (permanent ground color seen?)." NASA
catalog weight=3. NASA catalog ID #1116. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1979 Jul 18 at 08:56-09:05 D.Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA, 12.5"
reflector, x80) found Cleomedes (and other features) to glow, some with
flashes and pulsations. At 09:06 UT Cleomedes was glowing, but by
09:06UT it could no longer be seen. Cameron 2006 catalog ID=61 and
weight=0. ALPO. BAA weight=1.
On 1979 Jul 18 at 09:40-10:00 D.Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA, 12.5"
reflector, x80) found that Condorcet (and other features - 12
in total) were blue in colour - some had flashes that expanded from the
centres (at different rates). Cameron 2006 catalog ID=61 and weight=0.
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1979 Jul 18 at 09:40-10:00 D.Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA, 12.5"
reflector, x80) found that Delambra (and other features - 12
in total) were blue in colour - some had flashes that expanded from the
centres (at different rates). Cameron 2006 catalog ID=61 and weight=0.
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1979 Jul 18 at 09:40-10:00 D.Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA, 12.5"
reflector, x80) found that Macrobius (and other features - 12
in total) were blue in colour - some had flashes that expanded from the
centres (at different rates). Cameron 2006 catalog ID=61 and weight=0.
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1979 Jul 18 at 09:40-10:00 D.Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA, 12.5"
reflector, x80) found that Manilius (and other features - 12
in total) were blue in colour - some had flashes that expanded from the
centres (at different rates). Cameron 2006 catalog ID=61 and weight=0.
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1979 Jul 18 at 09:40-10:00 D.Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA, 12.5"
reflector, x80) found that Mare Crisium (and other features - 12
in total) were blue in colour - some had flashes that expanded from the
centres (at different rates). Cameron 2006 catalog ID=61 and weight=0.
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1979 Jul 18 at 09:40-10:00 D.Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA, 12.5"
reflector, x80) found that Maskelyne A (and other features - 12
in total) were blue in colour - some had flashes that expanded from the
centres (at different rates). Cameron 2006 catalog ID=61 and weight=0.
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1979 Jul 18 at 09:40-10:00 D.Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA, 12.5"
reflector, x80) found that Menelaus (and other features - 12
in total) were blue in colour - some had flashes that expanded from the
centres (at different rates). Cameron 2006 catalog ID=61 and weight=0.
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1979 Jul 18 at 09:40-10:00 D.Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA, 12.5"
reflector, x80) found that Proclus (and other features - 12 in total)
were blue in colour - some had flashes that expanded from the centres
(at different rates). Cameron 2006 catalog ID=61 and weight=0. ALPO/BAA
weight=1.
On 1979 Jul 18 at 09:40-10:00 D.Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA, 12.5"
reflector, x80) found that Promontorium Agarum (and other features - 12
in total) were blue in colour - some had flashes that expanded from the
centres (at different rates). Cameron 2006 catalog ID=61 and weight=0.
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1979 Jul 18 at 09:40-10:00 D.Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA, 12.5"
reflector, x80) found that Tisserand (and other features - 12 in total)
were blue in colour - some had flashes that expanded from the centres
(at different rates). Cameron 2006 catalog ID=61 and weight=0. ALPO/BAA
weight=1.
Heywood of Westville, Ohio, USA, using a 2" refractor under fair seeing
conditions, saw an unusually bright glow covering the dark part, nearly
uniform. Thought it was electric because it was too bright for
earthshine. It apparently obscured features. Cameron's 1978 TLP catalog
ID=243 and weight=1. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Mare Crisium 1951 Oct 26 UT 08:48:15 L.T. Johnson (USA)
suspected a mag 6 flash in Earthshine in Mare Crisium. ALPO/BAA
weight=2.
In 1950 Jan 20 at UT 09:15 T.Saheki (Osaka, Japan) and S.
Murayama observed several bright patches on the western limb
region in Earthshine. These were not the same as patches
observed by them on Jan 21. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
In 1950 Jan 21 at UT 09:00 T.Saheki (Osaka, Japan) and S.
Murayama observed several bright patches on the western limb
region in Earthshine. These were not the same as patches
observed by them on Jan 20. A tiny bright spot on the SW limb
was about mag 8. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
David Darling reported Aristarchus to be glowing blue
and brighter than its surroundings. The blue glow covered
the crater and adjacent terrain. The brightness kept
on getting higher until it was dazzling and could be seen
with the naked eye, without the telescope. Estimated
with the naked eye to be magnitude +3.5 where as Earthshine
was magnitude 5. The effect lasted for 7 minutes. The observation
was confirmed by David Darling's wife. Cameron 2006 extended
catalog ID=53 and weight=2. Observer located at Sun Praire, WI,
USA and used a 12.5" reflector x78. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
In about 557AD (Month, Day and UT unknown), Gregory of Tours
observed a light on the Moon near the centre. The ALPO/BAA
weight=1. Note some say this was during the Dec 11 lunar
eclipse.
Cape Agarum 1967 Jan 14 UT 17:17-17:35 Observed by Middleton,
Colchester, England, 4" refractor, x240, S=G) "Cape was hazy or
obscured whereas Piccard, Pierce, & Cape Olivium were quite clear. Has
seen this area obscured many times" NASA catalog weight=3 (average).
NASA catalog ID #1008.
Taruntius on 1980 Apr 18 UT 22:33 P.Madej (Huddersfield, UK)
noticed that this crater changed from dark black to almost a
light grey over a period of about 30 seconds. Observation
started at 22:27 and ended at 22:37. When the observer saw this
effect in that 10min period is not given, so the UT above is the
nid UT of the observing period. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Thales 1892 Apr 04 UT 04:00-04:30 Observed by Barnard (Lick
Observatory, CA, USA, 36" refractor?, S=4/5) "Filled with pale luminous
haze tho all surrounding features were sharp & normal. Walls also hazy
(Drawing)" NASA catalog weight=4 (high). NASA catalogue ID #276.
On 1981 May 07 at UT20:30-21:20 M. Mobberly of Suffolk, England (14"
reflector - seeing=poor and transparency=poor) P.W. Foley of ---- saw
faintish yellow-brown streaks in Aristarchus. Apparently these had been
seen the previous night, but were much fainter tonight. Bartlett had
previously seen this effect on the southern floor of the crater
according to Cameron. The Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID No. is 133
and the weight=3.
On 1979 May 30 UT 02:50-02:57 D. Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA,
12.5" reflector, x80, S=II=I and transparency=good-poor)
observed Aristarchus to be glowing in the dark at magnitude 3
and at its maximum it was dazzling. The glow vanished at
02:57UT. The Cameron 2006 catalog ID=54 and weight=1. The
ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1881 Sep 27 at UT 19:00 Marokwic (South Africa) observed a comet-
like object pulling across the Mon. The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=225 and
the weight=2. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Proclus 1971 Jan 01 UTC 19:00-20:25 Observed by Marchart (Aldershot,
England, 8" refractor x500). "Color patch on N wall, red & green on
inside, even tho eyepieces were rotated & changed. (chrom aberr. ?)
(experienced observer)." NASA catalog weight=1 (very low). NASA catalog
ID #1280.
On 1982 May 27 at UT 17:05-17:35 E.V. Arsyukhin (Moscow, Russia, 3"
reflector) found Lacus Sominorum was very bright, misty and the colour
varied. It was back to normal on the 28th and abnormal on 29-31st. -
had a dark spot in the middle for about 30 min. The Cameron 2006
catalog ID=169 and weight=3. The ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1982 May 27 at UT 17:05-17:35 E.V. Arsyukhin (Moscow, Russia, 3"
reflector) found Endymion had a dark spot in the middle for about 30
min. The Cameron 2006 catalog ID=169 and weight=3. The ALPO/BAA
weight=2.
Lyell 1972 Nov 10 UTC 23:43 Observed by Bartlett (Baltimore, MD, USA,
3" refractor x54, x100, x200S=3, T=5) "At apparent center of floor &
edge of morning shadow an elongated, N-S irreg. obj. dull whitish-gray,
albedo=4 like a c.p. (photo in Kwasan atlas in 1963 taken at col. 339.3
deg has a faint suggestion of a bright spot in that place- (plate 20)
LO IV66 h2 & 73 H2, sun elev. @ 20deg show an even, dark floor with a
very small crater right in center -- unresolvable at earth. Kwasan
photo's spot could be an artifact" NASA catalog weight=3 (average).
NASA catalog ID #1349.
On 1980 Apr 20 at UT21:12-22:45 J-H Robinson (Teignmouth, UK, 10.5"
reflector, x180) found, using a Moon Blink device, evidence of colour
on the flor patches of Fracastorius crater, brighter in blue than in
red. Also the floor to center varied in brightness in blue and in red.
Peters observed in white light and found the south east-south wall had
a slight orange cast and when a Moon blink was used it was less bright
in blue than in red light. M. Cook found spurious colour on the south
rim and also on Mons Pico. There was a colour blink reaction on the
southeast floor of Fracastorius - this was both faint and blurred and
not seen in white light. A.C Cook detected the permanent blink in the
south east floor of the crater at 21:47 and a fainter one in the north
west (marginally brighter in red than in blue). J.D. Cook found no
colour with the Moon blink device. 21:22-22:10 P.W. Foley got a strong
colour reaction with the Moon Blink device - brighter in red than in
blue and detected a pink colour visually on the south east wall 22:10-
22:45 (this did not give a blink effect though). Cameron 2006 catalog
ID=88 and weight=4. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1980 Apr 20 at UT21:38-21:50, Blair of Renfrewshire, Scotland (used
an 8" reflector and seeing=III) saw three patches in Petavius and they
could still be seen 7 minutes later. At 21:50UT he used a filter and
found the "northern one was brighter in blue, the southern one was
brighter in red and the central one was the same shad ein both
filters." Cameron comments that the central patch was a permananent
one. She then goes onto say that the crater is described as having dark
patches that are opposite to what one would expect from Fitton's theory
applied to dark features. Cameron 2006 extension catalog ID=88 and
weight=4. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
A faint white pinpoint flash seen and also in the same position
a whitish glow around the crater. No futher flashes seen after the
first one. From UT2117-2130 the glow was still visible but faded
making it more difficult to locate. When Foley observed he found
Aristarchus not very visible in Earthshine, despite Plato, Grimaldi,
and several other features being visible. Both observers used
12" reflectors. Cameron's 2006 catalog Extension ID=124 and
weight=0. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
On 1981 Mar 12 at UT 19:25-20:30 Butler (of Brixton, UK, using a
10" reflector at 32-64x) noticed that Aristarchus was not
visible, although the Earthshine was very obvious. Foley (of
Kent, UK, and using 12" reflector) noticed that the crater was
only just visible but Plato could definitely be seen. Cameron's
2006 TLP extension catalog ID=125 and weight=0. ALPO/BAA
weight=2.
Messier 1878 Nov 01 UT 20:00? Observed by Kleis (Cologne,
Germany, 6" refractor?) "Mess. A is more yellow after noon,
greener near Mess. A noon, both are same color." Please
observe this pair of craters in colour and compare noon and
non-noon images. NASA catalog weight=4. NASA catalog ID #206.
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1789 Sep 26 at UT 03:30 Schroter (Lillienthal, Germany) observed
close beneath Mons Blanc at the west foot, in the dark, a small 5th
magnitude, speck of light. Its round shadow was sometimes black,
sometimes grey. Cameron suspects that this is the same as her TLP
report No. 50. the Cameron 1978 catalog ID=62 and weight=4. The
ALPO/BAA weight=3.
On 1789 Sep 26 at UT04:25? Schroter (Lillienthal, Germany)
noted a bright point 26" north of Aristarchus crater. Note
that the year might have been 1788? The Cameron 1978 catalog
ID=50 and the weight=3. The ALPO/BAA weight=3.
On 1789 Sep 29 at UT04:25? Schroter (Lillienthal, Germany) noted
1'18.5" south east of plato was a whitish bright spot shining somewhat
hazily, 4-5"in diameter and at 5th magnitude. He never saw this again.
The spot became conspicuous at times and then disappeared. There was
nothing else similar in Earthshine. Note that the year might have been
1788? The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=50 and the weight=3. The ALPO/BAA
weight=3.
Schroter, from Lillenthal in Gemany, in 1789 (possibly it was
1788) Sep 26 UT 04:30 saw a small nebulous bright spot on the
northern edge of Mare Crisium. Cameron 1978 catalog ID=50 and
weight=3. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1987 Jan 07 at UT19:10-20:30 H.Miles of Cornwall, UK saw two bright
patches were seen in Earthshine at clock positions of 4 (this patch was
defined by the dark limb and the brightness faded inwards to the disk,
over a short distance. "Centred at 60 deg along the limb from the north
- a sketch showed approximately 10-15 deg along it") and 5:30 (this
second patch was smaller and not so bright as the first patch - it was
west of the north pole. P. Foley (Kent, UK) also detcted the patches
and said that one was not far from the sunrise terminator.
The Cameron 2006 Extension catalog gives this TLP an ID of 291 and a
weight of 2. The ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1953 Sep 16 UT03:00 R.M. Lippert (San Diego, CA, USA, 20cm
Cassegrain reflector, x90)saw a bright magnitude 1 flash on the
Moon, that was probably on the east rim of Werner(?) crater. It
is unclear if the observer meant it was really magnitude 1, or
was what a magnitude 1 star would have looked like. The flash
was yellow-orange in colour. Observation described in the
"Observations and Comments" column in the December, 1953
Strolling Astronomer (Vol. 7, No. 12), on page 170. The ALPO/BAA
weight=3.
Messier 1878 Nov 02 UT 20:00? Observed by Kleis (Cologne, Germany, 6"
refractor?) "Shaped like a half moon with E. edge missing. Appeared
diffuse. Messier A was sharp & completely defined. Was sure there was
fog there. Next day same appear. Shadow was diffused before noon, Mess.
A is more yellow after noon, greener near Mess. A noon, both are same
color." NASA catalog weight=4 (very high). NASA catalog ID #206.
On 1989 Dec 05 D. Darling of Sun Praire, WI, USA, saw two dark spots on
the SE floor of Proclus. The first dark spot was seen through 3"
refractor and then also through a 12.5" reflector (35x and 154x).
Seeing was S=10 and T=5. He noticed that at 23:00UT the wall spot was
less well defined. Darling also comments that he observed reflecting
glint, almost as if from a glass surface - he had not seen this effect
before. A telephone alert was issued and Caruso verified the spots.
Cameron comments that the spots were not shadows because the Sun was at
an altitude of 52 deg at Proclus at the time and she states that the
steepest slope ever mesured on the Moon was 52 deg and not inside
Proclus. Other observers observing were: Weier (6.5" refractor x284 and
S=3/10), Caruso (8" reflector x100), and Cameron. The Cameron 2006
catalog extesnion ID was 382 and the weight=1. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Pickering 1971 Jan 04 UTC 20:29-20:37 Observed by Collier (London,
England) "Between Saunder and Rhaeticus, apparently coming from Pick.
After 2027h it dimished with extraordinary swiftness, like a light goes
out. (experienced observer)" NASA catalog weight=?. NASA catalog ID #
1281. Note that this crater was previously called E.C. Pickering before
the IAU renamed some craters.
Dawes 1948 Feb 17 UT 19:30 Observed by Thornton (Northwick, England,
18" reflector) "Did not see c.p. saw cleft-like streaks from SW crest
to E, shadow." NASA catalog weight=3 (average). NASA catalog ID #501.
Williams of the UK, on 1882 Aug 21 at 19:30UT (Moon's age 7.9
days) noticed a spot at least half as bright, and as large as
Picard, near to Picard crater. This observation was reported
in the Astronomical Register of the Royal Astronomical Society
and is not included in the Cameron catalogs. It is one of many
measurements of the brightness of this spot for different
illumination angles and is one of three outlying brightness
points spotted on a graph by Willaims. The ALPO/BAA weight=3.
North (?) (left) Cusp 1912 Jan 28 UT 00:00 (27th 20:00 L.T.) Observed
by Harris (Philadelphia? Pennsylvania?, naked eye?): Intensely black
curved object 400x240km, shaped like a "crow". Cameron 1978 weight=1
(very low) and ID=334. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Eratosthenes 1947 Jan 30 Mean Col. 16deg. Observed by Hill (UK) "Main
peak of massive central mountain group appeared to be in a shadowless
having regard to it's claimed height of 6,600 ft. The whole of the
floor to the west should have still been in darkness. Instead
immediately to the west was a dark (intensity 1.5-2) region extending
almost to the foot of the bright inner wall and very diffuse in
outline. The observation could not be followed through due to
increasing cloud, but on the following night all was normal."
On 1969 Nov 18 at UT 04:22 Loocks (Valparaiso, Chile, 12" reflector)
observed a flash of light of magnitude 12. Cameron speculates a meteor
and mentions the apollo 12 watch. The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=1214 and
weight=1. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Eratosthenes: On 2017 May 04 UT 21:50-22:10 N. Longshaw (BAA,
UK, 78mm APO refractor, x125 & x175, seeing II-III,
transparency Good). A brownish (orange) tint was seen on the
inner NW wall light terraces - this was immediately obvious
when first looking at the crater, but as time progressed the
effect became less bright. Other craters were checked for
similar coloured tints, but none were seen elsewhere on the
Moon. UAI observers in Italy (F. Taggogna & A. Tonon) had been
imaging the region in colour 17:57-21:47, but their images do
not show any colour on the inner NW rim terraces, the their
last image is 3 min before Longshaw saw the colour. The
ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1886 Jun 10 at UT 21:00 (estimated) Tempel of Germany, saw a star-
like light (Cameron comments that the reference in the Middlehurst
catalog is wrong). Cameron 1978 catalog ID= and weight=4. ALPO/BAA
weight=3.
On 1989 Dec 06 at 23:09-23:34UT D. Darling of Sun Praire, WI, USA (3"
refractor x36 and x90, and then a 12.5" reflector at x64, S=7/10 and T=
4, saw dark spots in Proclus (not as dark as those from 5th Dec 1989).
Two telescopes were used and the bigger of these revealed some shading
on the floor of Proclus approximately a third as intense as he had seen
the previous night. A sketch was made. The TLP finished by 22:34UT.
Cameron comments that the dark patches could not be due to shadow as
the altitude of the Sun was too high at proclus. The Cameron 2006
extension catalog ID=383 and the weight=0. The ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1981 May 12 UT 22:00? M.C. Cook (Frimley, UK and using a 12"
reflector), noticed that Censorinus was very bright, fuzzy and
occasionally brighter than Proclus. However both Foley (Kent, UK) and
Amery (Reading, UK) using a C.E.D. found that Proclus was brighter than
Censorinus as it had been during April and May 1981. However Chapman
obtained the reverse of this. Cameron 2006 extension catalog ID=138 and
weught=3. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1981 May 12 UT 22:45-2325 M.C. Cook (Frimley, UK and using
a 12" reflector), noticed that Censorinus was very bright,
fuzzy and occasionally brighter than Proclus. However both
Foley (Kent, UK) and Amery (Reading, UK) using a C.E.D. found
that Proclus was brighter than Censorinus as it had been
during April and May 1981. However Chapman obtained the
reverse of this. Cameron 2006 extension catalog ID=138 and
weught=3. 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.
In 1952 Nov 26 at UT 01:00? Carle (USa, 8" reflector, x700,
seeing = excellent) observed the following in Plato: "Sketch
shows 8 spots -- 5 craters showed interior shad., 1
completely filled, but no others seen despite several hrs. of
study. Spots that should have been seen were missing. poor
seeing converts floor into shimmering shapeless blob. Has
observed it under good seeing & seen nothing on fl. as others
have noted". The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=555 and weight=3. The
ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1955 Aug 27 at UT 01:51 McCorkle (Memphis, Tennessee, USA, 6.5"
reflector, x200) observed a 2nd magnitude bright flare on the dark side
of the Moon. This remained steady, fading slightly before abruptly
disappearing. Cameron suggests that this might have been a meteor. The
Cameron 1978 catalog ID=604 and weight=0. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Messier and A 1966 Dec 22 UT 06:00-06:30 Observed by Kelsey (Riverside,
CA, USA, 8" reflector, x200, S=G, T=P) "Blinks on floors of both
craters (blink device not stated)" NASA catalog weight=2 (low). NASA
catalaog ID #1004.
On 1980 Apr 24 at 23:35UT Marco Petek (Porto Alegre, Brazil,
using a 7.5" refractor noticed that the center of Plato was
bright and opaque and the observer thought it was similar in
appearance to Linne. A sketch was made and two other observers
confirmed the appearance. Cameron mentions that Petek is an
experienced observer. Cameron 2006 catalog extension TLP ID=91
and weight=5. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Cichus 1975 Sep 15 UT 11:15-11:30 G.Ryder (Corinda, Australia,
25cm reflector, x250 & x380, seeing good but with some cloud)
The interior W. wall of this crater (on the lip) appeared
hazy - difficulkt to bring detail into focus. Neighbouring
craters/detail were sharp. Details in the crater wall interior
were starting to become visible as time went on, but it had
clouded over by 11:30. A Moon Blink was used but no colour was
detected. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1985 mar 01 at 20:00UT? Moseley noticed a violet band (tapering to
an apex close to the crater centre and merged with the eastern
exterior) around Toricelli B, however M. Cook (Frimley, UK) had seen a
dusky band(England, UK) on an earlier photo. There was no terminator
shadow in the crater. Cameron 2006 Catalog Extension TLP ID=260 aqnd
weight=3. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Censorinus-Maskelyne 1927 Apr 11/12 UT 23:00-01:00? Observed
by Druzdov (Russia) "2 luminescent pts. observed. Not vis. at
same Sun angle on May 7 & 12th. Not vis. on photos of Barn in
5/23/63" NASA catalog weight=3. NASA catalog ID #393. ALPO/BAA
weight=3.
2004 Jan 02 UT 09:05 (approx) M. Collins (Palmeston North, New
Zealand, ETX 90, seeing 3, clear) saw a possible(?) flash north
of Carlini D at about 16W, 35N in adverted vision. It lasted
only a split second. The ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Williams of the UK, on 1892 Aug 23 at Moon's age 10.0 days, noticed a
spot now rated at +1.5 (in brightness) that had been seen on the 21st
Aug, near Picard. Williams comments that this is the only obsewrvation
that departs "much" from the curve of diurnal brightness. The spot was
descibed as "nearly as large as Picard and nearly half as bright. This
observation was reported in the Astronomical Register of the Royal
Astronomical Society and is not included in the Cameron catalogs. It is
one of many measurements of the brightness of this spot for different
illumination angles and is one of three outlying brightness points
spotted on a graph by Willaims. The ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Observed by Chernov (Russia) "A periodic change in shape of
small dark spot at bottom of round spot further N. adjacent to inner
wall. It was larger than in proceeding months at same sun elev."
NASA catalog weight=2 (low). NASA catalog ID #669.
The UT given in the Cameron 2006 extension catalog are: 20:58, 23:25-
02:20 and 01:40-04:00, however it is not clear what UT applies to which
of the observers or the two features reported as having TLP on that
night. On 1984 Feb 12-13 Marshall (South Anerica, seeing=III-II)
noticed that Moltke was very bright with a fuzzy violet hue - he had
never seen it like this before. Cameron 2006 catalog extension TLP ID=
240 and weight=2. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
The UT given in the Cameron 2006 extension catalog are: 20:58, 23:25-
02:20 and 01:40-04:00, however it is not clerr what UT applies to which
of the observers or the two features reported as having TLP on that
night. On 1984 Feb 12-13 Marshall (South Anerica, seeing=III-II) saw
initially no craterlets in Plato, despite the Moon being at a high
altitude. At 01:45UT the northwest corner of Plato was red. Again no
other craterlets showed. He found the surrounding wall to be too bright
and this was confirmed by Crater Extenction Device readings and had
problems focussing on the crater. By 02:00-02:50UT he noticed
variability in the visibility of the craterlets. By 03:48UT the central
craterlet was much brighter than before and the crater doublet had
brightened but the southern craterlet was still invisible. Cameron
comments that Marshall was a very experienced observer. A. Cook (of
Frimley, UK) obtained a photodiode line scan image of Plato. The
brightness of the north west wall was brighter than the bright area on
the west wall. Marshall and Mosely both saw a dark area on the floor of
Plato close to the south wall (from clock position of 11 o'clock. There
was a prominent white spot on the floor and the central craterlet was
seen, but only under good conditions. Mosely does not discuss the west
and north west wall brughtnesses that were seen earlier by Cook and
Marshall. Cameron 2006 catalog extension TLP ID=240 and weight=2.
ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Gassendi 1967 Jan 21 UT 19:36-20:24 Observed initially by
Moore & Moseley (Armagh, N.Ireland, 10" refractor, x360, S=G),
Ringsdore (England, 10" reflector), Sartory (Farnham, England,
15" reflector?), Duckworth (England), Kilburn (Ashton,
England, 6" reflector), Farrant (England, 8" reflector) "Eng.
moon blink at 1936 (no events from 1750-1815h) outside SE
wall, brighter at 1939h, seen vis. at 1940h, faint at 1946h.
Moved NW at 1950h. At 2000h, Moseley saw it farther W., lost
it at 2008h. Seen again at 2026h further toward group of
hills. Moore saw it faint at 2002h, lost it at 2005h, vis. &
blink at 2007h. Checks again at 2010-50h, 2130-50, 2200-20,
2250-2300, 2325-0000h.Duckworth suspected blink in S.Iridium
nr. Bianchini later, but clouds intervened, after clearing
couldn't see it. Neg. obs. in 11 other features, inc.
Alphonsus & Plato. Confirmed Gass blink 2018-2024h" NASA
catalog weight=5. NASA catalog ID #1010. ALPO/BAA weight=4.
Alphonsus 1969 Nov 20 05:27 (UT)? Observed by Argus/Astronet (San
Diego, Sacramento, CA, USA) "Brightening in crater. (San Diego &
Sacramento obs. confirmed, but astronauts did not see anything. Apollo
12 watch)." NASA catalog weight=3 (average). NASA catalog ID #1222.
Gassendi 1971 Oct 29 UT 22:15-22:50 observed by J.Coates and
A.R. Neville (Burnley, UK, 6" reflectir, x192, slight fog,
seeing jumpy but good at times). An in ititial Moonblink
search proved negative. However white light observations by
Coates revealed a golden brown colour between the black
interior shadow and the base of the (bright W (IAU?) wall).
Neville confirmed its appearance as a coppery hue and saw the
colour for 5 minutes before it vanished at 22:55UT. ALPO/BAA
weight=2
On 1981 Apr 15 at UT06:27-06:40 D. Louderback (South Bend, WA, USA
using a 3" refractor x134 and S=4.5-5 and T=5-0) saw a bright spot on
the western wall of Eimmart (sketch supplied) have an unusual
brightening and shade. Variations occurred over 2-3 minute intervals.
Louderback commented that the spot looked like a flare with its apex
located at the crater wall and there was some blurring effect on the
spot - it decreased in size during the phenomenon. Seeing worsened
later. Apparently on the 18th and 19th of April everything was back to
normal. Cameron comments that there is no bright spot on the Moon at
this location. Lunar Orbiter IV plates 192-3.2 shows evening
conditions. Cameron 2006 Catalog Extension TLP ID=130 and weight=3.
ALPO/BAA weright=3.
Plato 1966 Dec 23 UT 06:15-07:10 Observed by Kelsey (Riverside, CA,
USA, 6" reflector, S=P, T=G) and Coralitos Observatory (Organ Pass, NM,
USA, 24" reflector +Moonblink) "3 brilliant spots on floor, all showed
blinks, (permanent colored Ground features ?). Not confirmed by
Corralitos MB." NASA catalog weight=2 (low). NASA catalog ID #1005.
On 1990 Sep 30 at D. Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA, 12.5"
reflector, x150) observed a red spot on the west wall (bright
in red filter and faint in the blue filter. No filter
reactions were found elsewhere. Gassendi had much detail
visible. A sketch was made. BAA observers in the UK were
alerted but they could not observe due to cloud. Cameron
2006 extension catalog ID=411 and weight=5. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Gassendi 1977 May 28/29 UT 20:45-21:15 Observed by D. Sims
(Dawlish, Devon, UK) saw a hazy area on the south east floor
that was normal in red and white light but darker in blue.
This was partly confirmed by J-H Robinson (Devon, England, 10"
reflector) 21:24-23:12 who saw the south east floor of
Gassendi to have a loss of detail - but no colour seen,
although at 21:57-21:58 it was slightly brighter in red than
in blue briefly. P. Doherty (22:45-23:15) did not see anything
ususual. D. Jewitt (22:22-22:55) did not reveal anything
ususual, apart from spurious colour. The Cameron 1978 catalog
ID=3 and ID=1463. The ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Aristarchus, Schroter's Valley, Herodotus 1881 Aug 06 UT 00:00?
Observed by Klein (Cologne, Germany, 6" refractor, 5" reflector)
"Whole region between these features appeared in strong violet
light as if covered by a fog spreading further on 7th. Examined
others around & none showed effect. Intensity not altered if
Aris. placed out of view." NASA catalog weight=4 (high). NASA
catalog ID #224. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
On 1985 Mar 02 at 20:00UT? Marshall (Medeline, Colombia, South America)
measured some very low Crater Extinction Device brightness readings of
Censorinus compared to Proclus. The Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID=
261 and the weight=3. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1982 Apr 04 at UT 23:30-00:25 P. Madej (Huddersfield, UK, 7cm
refractor & 16cm reflector) noticed the TLP in his refractor
first of all at x25. So stepped up the magnification to x111 and
found the crater brightness not what he was expecting. He tried
different filters but found no difference in brightness. With
the 16cm reflector however some changes in brightness were
dected. The crater has a very pale yellow colour and it was
slightly darker than Lacus Somniorum. P. Foley tried to confirm
at 00:09 but the crater looked normal then. The Cameron 2006
catalog extension TLP ID is 167 and weight=3. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
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.
Schroter's Valley 1955 Aug 29 UT 19:45 Observed by Firsoff (Somerset,
England, 6.5" reflector x200, S=P-F) "Valley almost completely
invisible in blue" NASA catalog weight=4 (high). NASA catalog ID #605.
Proclus 1970 Oct 12 UT 00:54 Observed by Bartlett (Baltimore, MD, USA,
4" reflector, 51x-181x) "Floor darkened to intensity 1.5 deg (albedo) &
c.p. became invis. Next day c.p. reappared & was 5 deg bright & 6deg
bright on 15th" NASA catalog weight=4 (high). NASA catalog ID #1277.
Aristarchus 1976 Sep 05/06 UT 18:45-01:35 Observed by Prout
(England?, 12" reflector, S=III-II), Foley (England, 12"
reflector), Moore and Spry (Sussex, England, 12" reflector)
"Viol. hue on crater on W. wall, especially NW corner seen by
Prout & 2 Foleys. Moore & Spry did not see color. All obs. noted
that the crater was dull Hobdell, of St Petersburg, FL, USA, using a 2"? refractor?
and Seeing=I-II, saw a bright region on the north west wall
that seemed to change in brightness. In truth, there were
other features elsewhere on the Moon that also fluctuated,
but not as much as Aristarchus was. No colour was noticed.
Cameron suspects fluctuations in our own atmosphere.
Cameron 2006 extension catalog ID 131 and weight=1. ALPO/BAA
weight=1.
On 1990 Oct 1st at 00:44-01:24UT D Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA)
observed that Gassendi still had a blink effect when viewed through
blue (Wratten 38A) and red (Wratten 25A) filters. No effect was seen on
Aristarchus. Gassendi was brighter in the red filter and this was
confirmed by Weier. Sketches were made and brightness measurements
taken. Both observers used a 12.5" reflector x159. At 01:00UT the NW
wall was 7.5, the SW wall 8.0, the S. wall 7.5, the floor 6.0, the
outer E. wall 8.0, the N. floor 5.5. Gassendi A W. wall was 9.5,l
Aristarchus W. floor was 8.0, NW wall 8.0, shadowed floor 0.0, E. outer
wall 7.0, NBP 5.5, area between Aristarchus and Herodotus 6.0, and the
comet like tail: 8.2 on the E. and 8.5 on the W. The Cameron 2006
catalog extension TLP ID=412 and weight=5. The ALPO/BAA weight=4.
Herodotus 1957 Sep 05 UT 02:55-03:24 Observed by Bartlett
(Baltimore, MD, USA, 5" reflector x180, S=1-5, T=5) Pseudo
peak visible within floor shadow at 03:10h" NASA catalog
weight=4. NASA catalog ID #671. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
On 2002 Feb 24 UT 05:15-05:35 W. Haas (Las Cruces, NM, USA) observed an
obscuration in Herodotus - the shadown was, almost, but not
completely black. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Schickard 1972 Sep 19 UT 19:45-20:25, 20:00-23:30 Observed by Watkins
(Herts., Eng. 4.5" reflector, x225, S=G) Amery (Reading, Eng.m 12"
reflector?), Fitton (Lancashire, Emg., 8.5" reflector) and Moore
(Selsey, Eng., 12.5" reflector?, 4.5" refractor 45-225x, S=P)
"Luminous, nebulous spot attracted Watkin's att'n. Got brighter.
Checked 'scope--not instru. Obj. had greenish-gray color, size @ 15km.
Amery & Fitton with blink devices noted nothing unusual at later times
(2000-2330h). Aris., Plato, Gass. were neg. at 1930-2025h (date not
given, guessed at fr. available info.). Turbulence, lasting
secs. at a time." NASA catalog weight=2. NASA catalog ID #
1344. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 2002 Feb 24 UT 06:05-06:20 W. Haas (Las Cruces, NM, USA) observed
that the shadow was, almost, but not completely black. This might have
been related to the observing conditions.
ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1933 Oct 01 at UT 03:00 Rawstron (USA, 4" refractor, x330) observed
the following in Mons Pico B: "Haze -- much narrower & elongated than
on Sep. 1". The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=407 and weight=3. The ALPO/BAA
weight=2.
On 1955 Oct 28 at UT00:00? Kozyrev (Crimea, Soviet Union, 50"
reflector) detected in Aristarchus Fraunhofer lines in UV spectra that
were much narrower than in the solar spectrum. This indicated
luminescent glow which overlapped contour(?) lines. Greatest after Full
Moon, but fluctuated monthly with no indication of solar activity
effect. The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=621 and the weight=5. The ALPO/BAA
weight=5.
On 1955 Oct 28 at UT 00:06 W. Taylor saw a naked eye flash on the Moon
in the north east area, on the edge of Mare Vaporum. The flash was
intense and radiated to a large area. The duration was 1/4 seconds.
Aristarchus, Schroter's Valley, Herodotus 1881 Aug 07 UT 00:00?
Observed by Klein (Cologne, Germany, 6" refractor, 5" reflector) "Whole
region between these features appeared in strong violet light as if
covered by a fog spreading further on 7th. Examined others around &
none showed effect. Intensity not altered if Aris. placed out of
view." NASA catalog weight=4 (high). NASA catalog ID #224.
Observed by Haas (Las Cruces, NM, USA) "Temporary greyness seen in
interior shadow." ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Aristarchus 1981 Mar 17 UT 22:40-23:25 Observed by Moore
(Selsey, England, 15" reflector, seeing III) "Aristarchus very
bright according to Crater Extinction Device and a coloured
blink detected" BAA Lunar Section TLP report. ALPO/BAA
weight=1.
On 2016 Jun 17 UT 05:00 A.Anunziato (AEA, Argentina Meade ETX
105, seeing 7/10, sketch made) observed a very tiny light spot
where the shadow from topographic relief to the south of
Vallis Schroteri nerges into the crater rim shadow on the
floor of Herodotus. There should be no light spot here.
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
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.
Ross D 1965 Apr 14 UT 06:03-06:22 Observed by Harris (Whittier?, CA?,
USA, 19"? reflector) "Phenomenon description unavailable. Given at an
ALPO meeting" NASA catalog weight=0 (very unreliable). NASA catalog ID
#874.
Babbage 1974 Sep 29 UT 00:00-01:00 Observed by Lord (St Annes-
on-Sea, UK, 10" refractor, Wratten 25 and 44a filters, 125x,
S=II-III). Activity observed in SW floor between A & W. wall.
Details not obscured in either filter, but slightly more
darker than surroundings in the blue filter. NASA catalog
weight=2. NASA catalog ID #1395. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1990 Oct 02 at 02:25-02:45UT D. Darling (Sun Praire, WI, USA using a
12.5" reflector at x159, with red and blue filters), saw a blink
effect on the west wall of Plato i.e. brighter through a blue filter
than through the red. No Colour blinks seen on Gassendi or Aristarchus.
Cameron 2006 Catalog TLP=413 and weight=4.
1996 Jun 28 UT 21:04 F. Ferri and D. Zompatori (Anzio), using
a 20cm f/6 reflector, reported that (translation) "Using a
blue filter the area was invisible". This is a UAI observation
from Italy. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1984 Feb 14 P. Moore (Selsey, UK) thought that there was something
odd about Mons Pico in that it looked very bright and gave a good
impression of a crater. Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID=241 and
weight=5. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
On 1984 Feb 14 P. Moore (Selsey, UK) observed that Plato was darker
than the nearby mare and no detail could be seen on the floor or the
eastern wall - the later was obscured. At 23:40UT some dimming was
still present on the north east wall and still no detail on the floor
of Plato. Cook noticed that the eastern floor close to the wall was
misty and also noted no detail on the floor. Amery though noted that
all parts of the floor were sharp although some darkening was visible
in the north west and a hint of obscurtion. The east wall though was
quite sharp. Mosely could see the central craterlet but from 8-6
o'clock tricky to define (Foley says that this effect has been seen at
this colongitude before). Streak ray across the floor of Plato seen
(North) - filter measurements made. Cameron 2006 catalog extension ID=
241 and weight=5. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Schroter's Valley 1897 Oct 08 UT 22:00 Observed by Pickering
(Cambridge, Maas., USA, 15"? refractor) "Variations in vapor col.
Tillsow, C was largest compared with D&E& most conspicuous 1.3 d after
sunrise. Drawing. (time est. fr. given colon.)" NASA catalog weight=3
(average). NASA catalog ID #291.
On 1988 Jan 02 at 05:57-06:13 UT D. Louderback (South Bend, WA, USA,
using a 8" reflector, seeing 4 out of 10) observed that points B and D
on Cape Agarum faded suddenly from 7.0 to 6.4 (B) and 6.0 (D). However
these returned to their normal levels at 06:13 UT. Cameron 2006
extension catalog ID=316 and weight=4. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
On 1977 May 30 at 21:04-02:13UT J.H.-Robinson noted a loss of
detail inside Gassendi, however he did not regard this as a
TLP. The effect was also seen by P.W. Foley. Cameron 2006
extension catalog TLP ID=16 and weight=0 ALPO/BAA weight=1.
On 1988 Jan 02 at 06:41-07:08 UT D. Louderback (South Bend, WA, USA,
using a 8" reflector, seeing 4 out of 10) observed that at 06:56 UT
Aristarchus floor (point F) brightened rapidly from an intensity of 5.2
to 6, however at 07:08 UT the spot returned to normal. He also noticed
that the bands on the walls varied every few minutes. A mist like
appearance was seen on the floor of Aristarchus. Through a red filter
he could see through the haze, but floor detail could not be seen
through a blue filter. Cameron 2006 extension catalog ID=316 and
weight=4. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Vallis Schroteri 1991 Aug 23 UT 02:19-02:49. Flashing spot at
end of SV fluctuated. Herzog, Darling & Weier confirmed spot
but not fluctuation. Spot brighter in red than blue, but Cobra
Head was bright in blue. No other region was abnormal.
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.
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.
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.
Variations in vapor column rising from the Cobra Head feature
(seen on several nights in succession) and also in the visibility of
craterlets A, C, F. Sunrise +2d. (time est. fr. gives colongitude).
Cameron 1978 catalog ID=279 and weight=3. Pickering was observing from
the southern station of Harvard University in Arequipa, Peru.
Schickard 1940 May 20 UT 20:00 Observed by Moore (England, 12?"
eflector) "Fog on floor -- milky appearance, less pronounced
than on 8/2/39 (see #456)." NASA catalog ID #465. NASA catalog
weight=4. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Mare Humboldtianum 1951 Jan 21 20:47-22:00 UT observed by Baum
(Chester, England). The appearance of some mountains on the
limb appeared to change over time, with some mistiness. ALPO/BAA
weight=2.
Madler 1940 Aug 17 UT 06:45 (Cameron gives 07:30 but Haas says
this is wrong) Observed by Haas (New Mexico?, USA, 12"
reflector?) Bright spot on S. rim had I=5.8 on this date but
8.9 on Aug. 17, when observing conditions were similar (see #
473). NASA catalog weight=4. NASA catalog ID #470.
ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Aristarchus 1989 Oct 13 UTC 21:00 Observed by Cook (Frimley, Surrey,
UK, 20cm reflector (visual and video)) "Aristarchus had what appeared
to be a outline of a ghost crater on it's eastern side - quite large
and bright". Cameron 2006 extended catalog TLP ID No=378 and weight=5.
ALPO/BAA weight=4.
Plato 1937 Jul 22 UT 06:20 Observed by Haas (Alliance, Ohio,
USA, 12" reflector?) "Floor distinctly greenish, but was gray on
June 23, 1937 at 0430 & col.84 (normal?)" NASA catalog weight=4
(high). NASA catalog ID #421. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Plato 1916 Oct 10 UT 21:00? Observed by M, Maggeni (Florence
Obs., Italy) "Reddish shadow spread over part of crater. Looked like
vapor (like nitrous vapor) and obscured underlying craters. The Cameron
1978 catalog weight=3 and ID = 365. The ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Aristarchus. 2024 Feb 23 UT 19:22. A.Conway (Bootle, UK - 20cm
Newtonian (dobsonian), 9mm Plossl eyepiece, Samsung A33 mobile
phone camera, 36 sec AVI file at 30fps, seeing probably
average-good). Noticed a blue tinge on northern rim of the
crater. This is probably normal, but we are flagging this up
as a weight 1 TLP, in order to obtain some repeat illumination
observations and confirm that the strength of the blueness is
normal.
Stevinus 1961 May 29 UT 02:45-03:30 Observed by Cameron (Adelphi, MD,
USA, 3.5" reflector, x160, Questar, Seeing=good) "Craters stood out
like glittering points (small craters on rims?). Only anomalies among
many features examined (specular refl. from flat surface?)." NASA
catalog weight=4. NASA catalog ID #738. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Furnerius 1961 May 29 UT 02:45-03:30 Observed by Cameron (Adelphi, MD,
USA, 3.5" reflector, x160, Questar, Seeing=good) "Craters stood out
like glittering points (small craters on rims?). Only anomalies among
many features examined (specular refl. from flat surface?)." NASA
catalog weight=4. NASA catalog ID #738. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Aristarchus 1954 Oct 12 UT 00:55-02:10 Observed by Bartlett
(Baltimore, MD, USA, 3.5" refractor x100, S=5-6, T=5) "Pale
violet radiance on S.wall SE, E, NE walls, & c.p. At 0409 strong
violet tint E 1/2 of fl.very faint on W. 1/2 of floor & W. wall.
Dark violet on nimbus & pale violet on Mt. m" NASA catalog
weight=4. NASA catalog ID #576. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Gassendi 1966 Dec 27 UTC 06:30-07:05 Observed by Kelsey (Riverside, CA,
USA, 6" reflector?) "Very faint blink on SW (ast. ?) floor & on another
N. of it on NW floor. Obs. considers obs. very suspect" NASA catalog
weight=1 (very poor). NASA catalog ID #1006.
On 1989 Oct 14 UT 19:00?, 22:00? P.W. Foley (Kent, U.K., using a 12"
reflector) noted that although the brightness of Aristarchus crater
seemed steady, that there was just too much detil to see inside the
crater than one would expect. Appeared as two craters - Cameron
commented that this was often seen by Bartlett. Several observers
apparently confirmed this TLP? Cameron 1978 catalog extension ID=379
and weight=5. ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Plato 1878 Nov 09 UTC 21:00 UTC Observed by Klein (Cologne, Germany,
6" refractor?) "Faint, but unmistakable white cloud not seen before."
NASA catalog weight=4. NASA catalog ID #207.
Aristarchus 1973 Feb 15 UTC 17:07-19:31 Observed by Theiss (located at
51N 5.67E) "area 4-5 diameters of Aristarchus were coloured clearly
yellow-red" 120mm reflector used. Ref Hilbrecht & Kuveler (1984) Moon
and Planets Vol 30 p53-61. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Plato 1973 Aug 13 UT 22:25-22:35 observed by Pedler (Devon, UK).
Observer noticed a slight blink on a lighter patch on the floor
just beneath the south(?) rim using Moon blink filters.
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
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 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.
Aristarchus 1973 Oct 12 UTC 18:13-18:45 observed by Pasternak "Bright
region of the S. of the crater, color was red." - Hilbrecht and
Kuveler, Earth, Moon & Planets, 30 (1984), p53-61. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
CCD images taken through Wratten 25 (red+near IR) and 87
(near IR only) filters. Between 00:02 and 00:25UT there
was some slight evidence that a fade may have taken place
however careful analysis by Cook casts doubt on this.
Probably it was more related to a degradation in image
quality due to seeing than a true TLP. An ALPO/BAA
weight of 1 has been assigned.
Aristarchus 1962 May 20 UTC 08:00? Observed by Wildey, Pohn (Mt Wilson,
CA ?, 60" reflector? Photometer) "Reddish color in Aris. 0.88
magnitudes brighter than normal (photometry)." NASA catalog weight=5
(very good). NASA catalog ID #758. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Bullialdus 1962 May 20 UTC 08:00? Observed by Wildey, Pohn (Mt Wilson,
CA ?, 60" reflector? Photometer) "1.05 magnitudes brighter than normal
(photometry)." NASA catalog weight=5 (very good). NASA catalog ID #758.
ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Kepler 1962 May 20 UTC 08:00? Observed by Wildey, Pohn (Mt Wilson, CA
?, 60" reflector? Photometer) "1.03 magnitudes brighter than normal
(photometry)." NASA catalog weight=5 (very good). NASA catalog ID #758.
Enhancement of spectrum in UV and CaI recorded on photoelectric
spectrometer scans by Grainger and Ring in Italy. Effect seen on
Aristarchus. Cameron 1978 catalog ID=740 and weight=5. ALPO/BAA
weight=5.
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.
Proclus 1955 Nov 01 UTC 02:50-03:05 Observed by Bartlett (Baltimore,
MD, USA, 3.5" reflector x100, S=6, T=5) "Proc. D normally 5 deg bright
was vis. tonite only in blue light, whereas usually is vis. in
integrated light. However at col. 110.5 deg it was a dark spot (see #
816) C.p. tonite was normal 5 deg bright but in Oct. lun. was dark".
NASA catalog weight=4 (good). NASA catalog ID #625. Note Proclus D does
not refer to the crater Proclus D as defined by the IAU, but probably
to a spot inside the crater that Bartlett designated D!
1969Jan04 UT19:30-20:00 W.Deane (Hendon, UK, 2" refractor)
observed a bright yellow spot just E of Aristarchus, stretching
from the S. end of Montes Harbinger to the S. wall of Prinz. The
ALPO/BAA weight=1. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Gassendi 1967 Jan 28 UT 00:04-01:06 Observed by Moseley (Armagh,
Northern Ireland, 10" refractor, x350, Seeing=Good) "Small moon blink
(Eng.) not quite concentric with the crater, half way from c.p. to SE
(IAU?) wall. Lasted till 0007h then clouds. Seen again at 0100h-0106h,
then lost with poor seeing. Looked again at 0148, 0230, 0310, but neg.
Other areas also neg." NASA catalog weight=4 (high). NASA catalog ID #
1013.
Aristarchus 1969 Dec 26 UT 03:35-03:45 Observed by Kilburn (England,
6" x192) "Suspected faint blink & glow outside of SW(IAU?) wall. Large
area was gray toward Herod. Another blink inside between 2 bands
at0330h. At 0345h neither blinks seen. Blink seen in blue (=red
event?). Next nite crater was normal." NASA catalog weight=3 (average).
NASA catalog ID #1231.
Plato 1971 Dec 04 UT21:00-21:10 D.B.Taylor (Dundee, UK, 10"
refractor, conditions poor and turbulent). Observer suspected
colour orange colour near bright spot on north wall. Observation
ceased due to being clouded out. ALPO/BAA weight=1.
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.
Grimaldi 1937 Sep 23 UT 05:00 Observed by Firsoff (Glastonbury,
England, 6" reflector + filter) "Variations in green. Strong green on
this date. Other dates of variation are:
Date Time Color
4/29/37 0930 slight
3/23/38 09?30 strong
7/24/38 0830 gray-green
NASA catalog weight=4 (high). NASA catalog ID #424.
On 1944 Mar 12 at UT 23:00 H.P. Wilkins (Kent, UK, 8.5" reflector)
observed that Plato appeared incomplete - the central crater had it's
north wall obscured. cameron comments that maybe this was due to the
low altitude of the Moon? The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=491 and
the weight=4. The ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Birt 1972 Sep 25 UT 23:20-23:45 Observed by Doherty (Stoke-on-Trent,
England, 10" reflector x280, S=VG) "All bright areas were similar in
intensity (albedo) but 2 larger ones at times seemed brighter. N & S.
The E. IAU? wall of the small craterlet showed most prominently & at
times suspected a faint pt. of light just W. of its center. This was
very suspect however." NASA catalog weight=1 (very low). NASA catalog
ID #1345.
Darling, alerted by Keyes saw Aris >> brighter obj on moon (as
it normally is) Comet ray & N rim of Herod. >> could see no
detail - Aris. except two bands, moon was pale yellow (low alt.)
with halo around it. Nothing unusual elsewhere. Cameron 2006
catalog extension ID #384 and weight=0. ALPO/BAA weight=1,
just in case there is some merit in this report?
Near Bacon, Barocius, Nicolai i.e. 16E-25E, 52S-42S 1878 Nov 13 UTC
02:30 Observed by Hammes & others (Oskaloose, Iowa, USA, 6.5"
reflector) "Lunar volcano (drawing) (investigation & correspondence
cast doubt on location)" NASA catalog weight=? NASA
catalog ID #208.
LeCroy Jr. and Sr. (Springfield, VA, 4.5" reflector, x75, S=VG, T=3)
observed the following in the Aristarchus and Herodotus region: "Prior
to 0542h the 2 craters were 2 bright spots within bright areas. Then a
brightness developed merging them together into one big bright area
with no discernable details. Returned to normal at 0554h. Sketches.
Albedo=10+ where normal albedo is 9.5". The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=
1413 and weight=4. The ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Schroter's Valley & Vicinity 1897 Oct 15 UT 19:00 Observed by
Pickering (Cambridge, Mass. USA, 15"? refractor) "Variations in vapor
col. change in direction of cloud rising from F is marked - (time est.
from given colon.)" NASA catalog weight=3 (average). NASA catalog ID #
292.
Theophilus 1971 Dec 06 UT 21:35-23:20 Observed by Findlay, Ford,
Taylor, Robbie (Dundee, Scotland, 10" reflector x180), Bolger
(Chester, England), Fitton (Lancashire, England, 8" reflector).
"Red-orange patch on E. (IAU?) floor even without a blink.
Others confirmed. Dimmed by 2105h but still seen. Dimmer yet at
2230h & gone at 2300h. Baum saw brownish-red patch at 25.5E,
12.5S. Taylor saw reddish patch SE of crater, fainter at 2220h,
gone at 2300h. Fitton saw image very dull,yellow & steady.
Filters showed nothing unusual, & nothing seen at 2320h." NASA
catalog weight=5. NASA catalog ID #1320. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Aristillus 1939 Sep 03 UT 05:00 Observed by Haas? (New
Mexico?) "Dark area in W. part of floor was I=4.0, comp. with
I=1.3, & I=3.7 (see #450, & #454). Used different telescope,
but can't explain diff. in albedo, since phase is similar in 2
& dist. from term. similar in all (normal?)." NASA catalog
weight=4. NASA catalog ID #459. ALPO/BAA weight=3.
Aristarchus region 1955 Sep 07 UT 03:00 Observed by Firsoff (Somerset,
England, 6.5" reflector x200, S=VG) "A dirty brown misty effect on the
area NE (Ast. ?) of crater. Darkened in blue & yellow filters alike."
NASA catalog weight=5 (very high). NASA catalog ID #608.
In 1955 Sep 07 at UT 03:45-05:20 Bartlett (Baltimore, MD, USA, S=5, T=
3) observed the following in Aristarchus crater: "Strong blue-viol. gl.
in E, NE rim & E. base of c.p. Dark viol. nimbus, granular aspect of
floor". Cameron suggests that this is confirmation of Firsoff's TLP of
the same day? The Cameron 1978 catalog ID=609 and weight=5. The
ALPO/BAA weight=2.
Copernicus 1955 Sep 07 UT 03:20 Observed by Firsoff (Somerset, England,
6.5" reflector x200, S=VG) "Brightening up of crater in the blue
filter" NASA catalog weight=4 (high). NASA catalog ID #607.
Aristarchus 1973 Oct 16/17 UT 22:16-01:00 Observed by Morgan
(England) "Invis. of NW wall bands. Seeing by no means
perfect" NASA catalog weight=1. NASA catalog ID #1376.
ALPO/BAA weight=1.
Eratosthenes 1976 Sep 14 UTC 04:24 Observed by Bartlett (Baltimore, MD,
USA, 4.5" reflector, 45-300x, S=6, T=3 hazy) "Pseudo shadow F
disappeared & wall here is same intensity as whole inner crater wall, =
4deg. No change in X, X3 or X2 (4 deg much brighter than normal)." NASA
catalog weight=4 (good). Cameron c1978 atalog ID=1453 and weight=4. The
ALPO/BAA weight=2.