Solar Dynamics Observatory sees lunar transit

Solar Dynamics Observatory captures lunar transit
NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of the moon crossing in front of its view of the sun on Jan. 30, 2014, at 9:00 a.m. EST. Credit: NASA/SDO

On Jan 30, 2014, beginning at 8:31 a.m EST, the moon moved between NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO, and the sun, giving the observatory a view of a partial solar eclipse from space. Such a lunar transit happens two to three times each year.

This one lasted two and one half hours, which is the longest ever recorded. When the next one will occur is as of yet unknown due to planned adjustments in SDO's orbit.

Note in the picture how crisp the horizon is on the moon, a reflection of the fact that the moon has no atmosphere around it to distort the light from the sun.

A movie of the moon crossing in front of the sun as seen by NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory on Jan 30, 2014. The sun appears to move because SDO’s fine guidance systems rely on seeing the whole sun to keep the images centered from exposure to exposure. Credit: NASA/SDO/Goddard Space Flight Center

Provided by NASA

Citation: Solar Dynamics Observatory sees lunar transit (2014, January 31) retrieved 16 April 2024 from https://phys.org/news/2014-01-solar-dynamics-observatory-lunar-transit.html
This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.

Explore further

SDO observes Earth, lunar transits in same day

0 shares

Feedback to editors