RE: [APML] Film Choice for Total Lunar Eclipse (warning! OT)

["Thomas W. Earle" <twade@bmi.net>]

Dan,

Polar alignment isn't quite as critical when imaging the moon since
exposures tend to be quite short.  I typically just "polar align" on
Polaris when imaging the moon.  It's quick and gives you more
breathing room (i.e. longer exposures).  As a result, I would highly
recommend setting up your scope and piggybacking your equipment.
DON'T forget to set the rate to LUNAR.  Besides, it should only take
a few minutes to "polar align" your scope to Polaris anyway.  Yes,
it will be off about a degree, but it sure beats the alternative
(i.e. no drive).  

I generally try to use two different films during a lunar eclipse.
A slow film (e.g. Provia 100F) outside totality, and a fast film
(e.g. Provia 400F pushed 1 stop) during totality.  This gives me the
best of both worlds: a fine grained film when the moon is bright and
a fast film when the moon is dim.

Wade


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