Observing Basics web extra: Explore an imperfect Moon

Use Robert Burnham's guide to the First Quarter Moon as you go out observing.

Contributed by Glenn Chaple

Published: April 27, 2009

The First Quarter Moon is the perfect destination for that maiden telescopic voyage. Viewing along the terminator highlights the cratered lunar surface.

Photo by John Vrabec

In the June issue of Astronomy, I encouraged you to follow in Galileo's footsteps and spend some nights observing the Moon. It the perfect destination for that maiden telescopic voyage. I often encourage viewing our only satellite during the 1-week observing window cenetered on the first quarter phase. Viewing along the terminator — the line that separates the light from the dark hemispheres of the Moon — highlights the cratered lunar surface.

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