*Question about Mercury, and viewing it from various view (binoculars to hubble)

In summary, the group discusses the appearance of Mercury when viewed with the naked eye, binoculars, telescope, and the Hubble. They note that it appears as a faint star to the naked eye and is too small to see as a planet. With a small telescope, it is visible as a disk and there are few Hubble photos due to the proximity to the sun.
  • #1
nukeman
655
0
Hi guys,

Im just starting to get into viewing. I have a question about Mercury though.

Can someone give me an idea of what mercury looks like from the Naked eye, binoculars, telescope, and hubble. Mainly I am trying to get what variations in colour, texture, surface details/features, are noticable with each different view.

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
By eye it's basically a failry faint star, it's too small to see as planet-like and since it's always so close to the sun you can only generally see it just before dawn.

It's around 8-10" at best so should be visible as a disk in a small telescope, Probably aren't many Hubble photos because you wouldn't want to point the HST that close to the sun!
 

1. What is the best way to view Mercury with binoculars?

The best way to view Mercury with binoculars is to first find a high vantage point with a clear view of the horizon. Look towards the western sky just after sunset or towards the eastern sky just before sunrise. Use binoculars with at least 7x magnification and aim them towards where Mercury should be according to its current position. It may appear as a small, bright dot in the sky.

2. Can Mercury be seen with the naked eye?

Yes, Mercury can sometimes be seen with the naked eye, but it is often difficult to spot due to its proximity to the sun. It is best viewed during twilight, when the sky is not completely dark but the sun has already set or not yet risen.

3. Is it possible to see Mercury with a telescope?

Yes, it is possible to see Mercury with a telescope. A telescope with at least 50x magnification is recommended, as well as a solar filter to protect your eyes. Look towards the western or eastern sky during twilight and aim the telescope towards where Mercury should be located according to its current position.

4. Is Mercury visible from all locations on Earth?

No, Mercury is not visible from all locations on Earth. Its visibility depends on its position relative to the sun and the observer's location. For example, it is easier to view Mercury from locations closer to the equator, while it may be difficult or impossible to see from polar regions.

5. Can Mercury be seen with the Hubble Space Telescope?

Yes, the Hubble Space Telescope has the ability to view Mercury, and has captured many images of the planet in the past. However, its primary mission is to observe deep space objects, so it is not typically used to view Mercury unless there is a specific scientific reason to do so.

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