What telescope refractor aperture size would I need to observe Mars's polar caps? I have a Levenuhk Strike NG 80mm, and I can see red disk of planet but cannot see any details on the surface.
$\begingroup$
$\endgroup$
Add a comment
|
1 Answer
$\begingroup$
$\endgroup$
1
According to this website, you may actually have a big enough refractor to see them, but only on a "good viewing" night, and when Mars is close (opposition):
4-6" reflectors or 3" refractors: polar caps, large surface features
3"=76mm
This website also says that 80mm to 90mm will let you see the Martian polar caps:
Martian polar caps and major dark surface features during oppositions
I hope that helps. Your 80mm should work, although it seems to be at the lower end of requirements. You may just need better atmospheric conditions. Clearsky is a good website to check out.
answered Jan 28, 2012 at 16:58
-
2$\begingroup$ Thanks for your answer Larian! I will try to observe Mars out of city or at early morning next time. Aslo I have noticed that mars-filters can be helpful. I hope to see polar caps at opposition time, approx. begining of March. $\endgroup$– comsCommented Jan 28, 2012 at 20:25