Realm of Darkness

30th August 2021

With September rapidly approaching

Darkest Hour, Brightest Night have published our guide

This article is ideal those looking to find some Astronomical objects to view or photograph

And acts as additional information for those who have listened or viewed the DHBN – Realm of Darkness podcast or video

And while we don't include every astronomical event. We do hope you find it useful in your Astronomy and Astrophotography

Remember it is worthwhile checking the weather forecast a few days before the event you want to view. And again on the day before the event you want to see. Especially if you need to leave the comfort of your home or garden to see

 

New Moon

For those of you who want to photograph the night sky. The 7th of September brings us a New Moon, meaning a lack of moonlight

Thus allowing you to capture more of the other objects in the night sky

That doesn't mean the Moon is a loathsome creature, spoiling Astrophotography. Indeed it is entirely possible to take some great photos of the Moon. But the New Moon, lets the objects of the night, get their chance to shine

 

Epsilon Perseid

Though not as big a meteor shower as the Perseid meteor shower

There is an opportunity to see and perhaps photograph a meteor shower, if you so desire

There estimated number of meteor is only around five per hour, and though can be seen from about 20:00 it may be best to wait until 21:00 for the best chance to see

Search Sky Map to find a map to help you find the Perseus constellation

You might be able to see the Epsilon Perseid, in the constallation

 

Neptune in Opposition

On Tuesday 14th September, Neptune is in opposition. Which is an ideal time to view and possible take some photos of Neptune

However you will probably need a pair of binoculars see something. Or more likely a telescope with a large magnification, to see with any degree of accuracy

The image below is designed to show you what 'in opposition' means

 

Full Moon

September 21st brings us a Full Moon

No booing in the back

If you looking to view or photograph the Moon. Then tonight is ideal.

The Moon is officially full until about one in the morning. And you may be up, and want to take a photo.
However, the Moon starts rising about 7:30 PM, and with the darker nights, certainly in the north or Earth. Then you may get a chance to see a very nearly, and who would be able to tell, except the other astronomical buffs you know

September Equinox

The September astronomical Equinox, isn't a chance to take a load of photos of something.

But just means the northern and southern hemispheres received the same about of light

 

Until October, we hope you have fun shooting the starts. And many other astronomical objects

Any we welcome any photos you would care to share with us

 

 

Written by: Ben Patmore
Ben Patmore is an amateur astrophotographer