0407-AstronomyReport

Date of exercise: 06APR2016

Astronomer: Dakota Clayton

Sky conditions: Clear!

Wind conditions: Calm

Observation Start Time: 10:30 p.m.

Observation End Time: 01:15 a.m.

Summary:

Last night the sole purpose of viewing was to show the other crew members the objects I have been viewing.

With the help of the photographer we attempted troubleshooting for photographing objects, for a DSLR with T-mount. Despite out best efforts, we were, at this time, unable to figure out how to sufficiently focus the combination of t-mount and camera to photograph anything. Although viewing was great for the naked eye, placing the T-mount and camera on scope caused to come so out of focus that large black circles were in the center of what were otherwise large and bright celestial bodies. I recognized this as completely out of focus from previous viewings. Despite trying the extremes of ROBOFOCUS I was unable to attain focus necessary for successful documentation at this time.

After about an hour and a half, the crew remained viewing with the naked eye for about another hour to see shooting stars, ISS etc.

Objects Viewed:

Arcturus

Betelgeuse

Sirius

Jupiter?