Mapping the infrared thermal emission from the surface of Venus, 2017 April-May

Employing a novel narrow-band filter technique, Australian BAA observers Phil Miles & Anthony Wesley have been able to achieve a new level of resolution for amateur imaging of the infrared thermal emission from the nightside of Venus. In addition to revealing topographic details, images from 2017 April-May reveal at least one compact, infrared-bright spot located within a topographic depression upon the surface. We discuss the interpretation of this bright spot, and the question of whether it was or was not a temporary feature.

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Two autumn comets

As the nights draw in for northern hemisphere observers, two interesting comets will be well placed for observation from the

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