06/07/2025
A mesmerizing real-time capture of the Moon setting over the horizon, approximately 3.5km distant. Notice the significant distortions in the lunar limb? This is a prime example of atmospheric seeing – an optical phenomenon where light from celestial objects is bent and distorted by turbulent pockets of warm and cool air. The effect is profoundly amplified over long viewing distances.
For me, this terrestrial observation serves as crucial practice. The primary challenge isn't battling atmospheric turbulence, but the demanding task of precisely predicting the Moon's exact setting point on the distant horizon. Given the Moon's relatively small angular diameter of approximately 0.5 degrees and its rapid descent (setting in just a few minutes), achieving correct framing in such a brief window of opportunity presents a significant challenge even before battling atmospheric effects. This makes it invaluable for high-magnification lunar and planetary imaging, where precision and speed are key.
Captured with a Google Pixel 7 smartphone coupled to an Orion Starblast 4.5 telescope.
