Astro Guide for the Month of March
March has a lot of Astro events to keep an eye on! If you want to find out more about how best to experience or capture these moments we wrote a blog about it here.
8th March: Mercury high in the sky
When at it's highest point Mercury will be as clear as it can be, meaning its the perfect time to bring out your telescope or telephoto setup to get some photos!
- Use the Right Equipment: Ensure your telescope or telephoto lens is properly mounted on a sturdy tripod to reduce vibrations.
- Optimize Settings: Consider manual focus and appropriate ISO settings to capture Mercury’s details in low light.
- Plan Ahead: Check the exact timing and altitude of Mercury using apps or online astronomy tools to be ready when it peaks.
9th March: Moon and Mars close together
Mars will be significantly smaller compared to the moon, but again with a decent telephoto lens or sufficient magnification on your telescope you will be able to get both in the same frame!
- Framing the Shot: Experiment with composition to capture both celestial objects together, keeping in mind the difference in apparent size.
- Magnification Tips: Use a telephoto lens with at least a 200mm focal length (or higher magnification on your telescope) to make Mars more prominent.
- Exposure Considerations: Adjust your exposure settings to handle the brightness of the moon and the fainter Mars simultaneously.
14th March: Blood Moon and Meteor Shower
In one night you get to capture a blood moon (full moon eclipse) as well as the chance to capture one of the meteors from the shower!
- Timing is Key: Plan your exposures around the peak of the blood moon and remain patient to catch a meteor streak.
- Exposure Strategy: Use longer exposures for the meteor shower while balancing the bright moon – consider stacking multiple images if necessary.
- Safety & Preparation: Ensure you have a comfortable setup (remote shutter release, proper intervalometer settings) to capture both events seamlessly.
29th March: Solar Eclipse
It is important to say, never look or capture the sun directly as it can damage both your eyes and your expensive gear, if you are looking to capture we recommend a Solar Filter to protect it AND capture better shots. That being said, the partial eclipse should offer some amazing opportunities!
- Safety First: Always use a certified solar filter when attempting to photograph the sun; do not use your optical viewfinder without proper protection.
- Equipment Setup: Use a telephoto lens with a solar filter, mounted on a sturdy tripod, and consider an intervalometer for capturing multiple exposures during the eclipse.
- Exposure & Focus: Manually set your focus and adjust exposure to account for the intense brightness differences during the partial eclipse.
Conclusion
March offers a dynamic and exciting lineup of astronomical events that cater to everyone—from casual stargazers to dedicated astrophotographers. Whether you're capturing the crisp clarity of Mercury, the intriguing juxtaposition of the moon and Mars, the dramatic display of a blood moon alongside a meteor shower, or the awe-inspiring partial solar eclipse, each event presents unique opportunities and challenges. Remember to prioritize safety by using the proper equipment and filters, and take the time to experiment with your settings and compositions. With careful planning and a bit of patience, you can transform these fleeting celestial moments into lasting memories and stunning photographs. Happy stargazing and clear skies!