630504Eclipse5_p2

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2. SOLAR PROMINENCES

    Drawings of solar. prominences are made in the same mannpr as those of the
corona except that telescopic aid is definitely required. The same care must be
taken in recording accurately all detail seen and there is the same problem in
getting this done in a limited time. In fact, if there are numerous prominences, it
may be impossible to record them all. The report should then indicate which areas
of the drawing are inccxnplete. For solar prominences, it is especially important
that the drawing be properly oriented.

3. AURORA 

    It is suspected that daytime aurora might be visible during a total eclipse but
one has not yet been observed. In the search for aurora only naked eye observations
are required. Since this is a minimum eclipse the likelihood of auroral activity is
small but nevfltheless possible. It is suggested that this observation be assigned
to an experienced aurora observer who would complete a regular aurora report form.
He must, of course, be dark adapted before totality.

4. STARS VISIBLE DURING TOTALITY

    The purpose of this observation is to determine the extent to which the sky is
darkened by the eclipse and here again the need for dark adaptation is obvious.
The observer is provided with a chart showing stars dots to third magnitude in the
vicinity of the sun. Those visible during totality are noted by the observer. He
also plots the position of any fainter stars he can see. No optical aid should be
used and it is preferable to have more than one observer since some have keener
eyesight than others. For the July 20th eclipse, Venus and Mercury will be in the
vicinity of the sun. If the observer is fortunate enough to spot a comet, then he
should, concentrate on it!

5. EFFECTS ON BIRDS AND ANIMAL LIFE

    As tbe sky darkens, the observer notes the effect this has on birds and animals
who mistake the eclipse tor nightfall. The ability to recognize various species
will, of course, be helpful. The observer should record any unusual happenings,
noting the time of each, such as the first cock crow after totality.

                          *    *    *    *    *    *    *

Eclipse Photography In Bulletin No. 4, we said that the Kodak booklet on "Solar
Eclipse Photography for the Amateur" was out of print. We have now been advised by
Eastman Kodak that they' are preparing a revised edition which should be awilable
by the end of this month as there may be some delay in getting our supply, it
might be quicker for you to get a copy from your nearest Kodak dealer.


                                           Isabel K. Williamson
                                           National Co-ordinator 1963 Eclipse
                                           5162 Belmore Avenue
                                           Montreal 29, Que.

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