Tips for the visual observation of the Mars opposition 2020
The observations of the Mars channels in the 19th century were made with telescope apertures of 30 to 50 centimeters. Telescopes with similarly large apertures (like the Celestron C14, or the PlaneWave CDK 12.5- and 20 inch) are now well within the reach of amateur astronomers. Perhaps you will succeed in spotting the large Canyon Valles Marineris?
To help you succeed in the hunt for fine details on the Red Planet, we have put together some tips for you.
Telescope and accessories:
In order to adjust the optics to the outdoor temperatures, bring your telescope outside sufficiently long before the start of the observation to minimize instrumental seeing. At the beginning of October the temperatures around midnight can be quite cool. If your telescope is located in a dome or a retractable roof hut, open it in time.
If you use reflectors for observing Mars, make sure that the optical system is collimated as perfectly as possible. That the telescope optics should be as clean and dust-free as possible, especially the Schmidt plate f SC telescopes, applies to all kinds of visual observations.
Also make sure that the eye lenses...