What is a practical test observers use to evaluate seeing before committing to observing Mars?
Answer
Focusing on a bright star or Jupiter.
Checking the stability of the diffraction rings around a bright star or the image quality of Jupiter provides an immediate, practical assessment of current atmospheric steadiness (seeing).
Related Questions
What event causes Mars to appear brightest and largest in our sky?What atmospheric condition relates to the steadiness of the air, often described as optical quality?What does 'transparency' measure concerning atmospheric conditions?What results from viewing Mars when it is near conjunction?What is the primary reason a close opposition might still yield poor views for observers in the Northern Hemisphere?What is the theoretical capability determined by the aperture of a telescope?To resolve fine details like the boundary of a polar cap, which atmospheric condition is the dominant requirement?What magnification range is often aimed for when trying to observe features like the polar caps or Sinus Meridiani?What is a practical test observers use to evaluate seeing before committing to observing Mars?When the seeing is mediocre, what type of filter is suggested to provide the best balance of contrast boost and light transmission?