Lunar Crater Drawing
(LCD)

Instructions:
1) Use the planet observing sheet to complete this assignment/sketch.   (Click here to obtain the sheet & follow the instructions!)

2) This observation/sketch MUST be signed by a lab assistant as it requires you to make your observation with a telescope.

3) Complete a sketch (Sketch #1) of the entire Moon as you see it through the telescope from Stargazer Observatory.  Prior to doing this, 
go to the Moon Atlas  to complete your sketch of the three craters indicated below.  By checking out the Moon Atlas  prior to 
making your trip to the observatory you will have a more detailed idea of what you are seeing!

4) Also sketch (Sketch #2) the three large central craters on the Moon showing details in those craters and their surroundings. .
    - Ptolemaeus 
    - Alphonsus
    - Arzachel

5) Identify and label each crater and feature observed. (This observation/sketch is best completed near one of the 
quarter phases when the Moon's terminator crosses near or on the craters - if you try to do this at Full phase, you could possibly
damage your eyes.  Wait until quarter or late crescent phases - DO NOT ATTEMPT THIS OBSERVATION AT FULL PHASE
OR CLOSE TO IT!)

6) Calculate the magnification of the telescope you used to make this sketch.  (My recommendation is to LOOK at the
    craters with the telescope and get a lab assistant to sign you off for the observation. 

7) Complete your 50 word written paragraph providing information on your lunar observing experience as described on your observing sheet.

8) Turn in on the Due date.

- Below are a couple of excellent & detailed sketches made through a telescope of the three central craters as examples.



       
           Arzachel                                                                                                      Ptolemaeus
                  - Pekka Rautajoki                                                                                             - Pekka Rautajoki
    


Papers received without Lab Assistant signature verifying the observation was completed:  No Credit!
Miscalculated or missing magnification calculation for telescope used:  3 point penalty
Papers turned in without a typed (word processed) 50 work description:  5 point penalty
Handwritten (scribbled) 50 word paragraphs:  2 point penalty
Spelling errors:  3 point penalty
Papers not stapled together, subtract one point.
As always, late papers are not accepted.  Deadline is a self-defining term.

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