Lunar X

For the Google sponsored competition to put a robot on the moon, see Google Lunar X Prize.
Lunar X formation taken January 30, 2012

The Lunar X (also known as the Werner X) is a clair-obscur effect in which light and shadow creates the appearance of a letter 'X' on the rim of the Blanchinus, La Caille and Purbach craters.[1]

The X is visible only for a few hours before the first quarter,[2][3] slightly below the lunar terminator. Near to the X, the Lunar V is also visible, formed by Ukert crater and several other small craters.[2]

References

  1. ↑ Rice, Tony. "X marks the moon on Thursday night". WRAL.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 Harrington, Philip S. (2010). Cosmic challenge : the ultimate observing list for amateurs. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. p. 1999. ISBN 0-521-89936-2.
  3. ↑ Chapman, David M.F. "The Lunar X Files: a fleeting vision near the crater Werner". Willingboro Astronomical Society.

External links