660921Planetary6_p2

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Planetary Section, Bulletin No.6                                                   -2-


The following table lists the apparent diameter in seconds of arc of the outer edge of
the outer ring (ring B), times being 0 hours Universal Time.

   Date     Major Axis     Minor Axis                Date     Major Axis     Minor Axis
Sept. 28      43.80           0.69                Nov. 27       40.88           0.18
Oct.   2      43.74           0.58                Dec.  1       40.60           0.17
       6      43.65           0.48                      5       40.32           0.14
      10      43.54           0.38                      9       40.04           0.11
      14      43.41           0.28                     13       39.76           0.06
      18      43.25           0.20                     17       39.48           0.01
      22      43.08           0.12                     21       39.21           0.05
      26      42.88           0.05                     25       38.94           0.11
      30      42.67           0.02                     29       38.68           0.19
Nov.   3      42.45           0.07                Jan.  2/67    38.43           0.27
       7      42.21           0.11                      6       38.18           0.35
      11      41.96           0.15                     10       37.94           0.44
      15      41.70           0.17                     14       37.72           0.54
      19      41.44           0.18                Feb.  3       36.75           1.10
      23      41.16           0.19                Mar.  3                       2.01


Observations that should be made concurrently with the above include scanning the disk
of Saturn for unusual markings, such as the famous white spot on the equatorial zone
discovered by W. Rays of England in 1933. A search is also recommended for any of the
"Jupiter Type" markings as detailed on page 2, "Observing Jupiter", Bulletin No. 4,
July 1962.

Observations of Saturn' a satellites might prove very rewarding at this time, since
Saturn was in opposition on September 19. On this date, and for sans days fOllowing,
the earth is very near the orbital planes of the satellites and hence the apparent
orbits appraimate straight lines. It might be possible to witness a satellite
transit the disk of Saturn, most probably Titan.


Further information of assistance to the observer in compiting satellite positions will
be found on pages 57 and 58 of the OBSERVER' S HANDBOOK for 1966.


Do not hesitate to request any help Or Instruction on any of the programs within this
section. All requests will be answered and all observations submitted will be
acknowledged.










                                                         Archie L. Ostrander,
                                                         National Co-ordinator,
                                                         Planetary Section,
                                        Standing Committee on Observational Activities,
                                                         75 Rabbit Lane,
21 September, 1966.                                      Islington, Ontario.

                                                         Telephone: 621-7086