Re: Iridium 18 flare (Venus vs. Iridium)
Ron Lee (ronlee@pcisys.net)
Sat, 01 Nov 1997 18:02:11 -0700
>A few months ago, I tried to see Venus perhaps 1-2 hrs. before
>sunset using 7x35 binoculars. I didn't know *precisely* where to
>look so was scanning around. Finding it was difficult and tedious
>and took some time. Then once found, my thought was "Wow,
>that's bright; why did it take so long to see it?" Then I would take
>the binoculars down to see it with the unaided eyes and couldn't.
>Then binoculars again, more difficulty in seeing it but when found
>again it seemed so obvious. There are probably people on this list
>who can explain why this happens in detail.
>
>Jake Rees
>Burbank, Calif., USA
>
Part of it is focusing on the object. In a clear sky, you eye does
not naturally focus at infinity. I have does this mucho times.
Once you find the star/planet...it become seasy, but that initial
acquisition is hard at times.
You are probably right about bright Iridiums being easier. I hope to
see one someday as well.
Ron Lee