Can the Venus transit be viewed with the naked eye

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the visibility of the Venus transit with the naked eye, specifically whether it can be observed without a telescope and the implications of using solar filters for safe viewing. The scope includes observational astronomy and safety considerations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that the dot representing Venus can be seen with the naked eye, provided safety measures are taken.
  • Others express concern about the visibility of Venus, questioning whether it would appear as a distinct dot or merely a small blemish against the Sun.
  • One participant warns against viewing the transit without proper eclipse viewing goggles, emphasizing the importance of eye safety.
  • There is mention of geographical limitations regarding visibility, with some regions unable to see the transit at all.
  • A suggestion is made to visualize the size of Venus during the transit by comparing it to a printed image of a previous transit and adjusting distance accordingly.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether Venus can be seen as a distinct dot without a telescope, and there is no consensus on the visibility across different geographical locations.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependence on geographical location for visibility and the need for proper eye protection when observing solar events.

dalcde
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Can the Venus transit be viewed with the naked eye? I do have a solar filter (from the anstronomy department of a university), so this isn't about safety issues. The question is would I need a telescope to oberve the dot or can I just look at it?
 
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dalcde said:
Can the Venus transit be viewed with the naked eye? I do have a solar filter (from the anstronomy department of a university), so this isn't about safety issues. The question is would I need a telescope to oberve the dot or can I just look at it?

You should be able to see the dot, and the main issues are eye safety issues rather than astronomical.
 
twofish-quant said:
You should be able to see the dot, and the main issues are eye safety issues rather than astronomical.

A dot like a dead pixel or one that can be easily spotted? (the sun looks even smaller than my thumb when observed without a telescope)
 
You can see a dot like structure on the Sun but DON'T see it with naked eye get a eclipse viewing goggles and then try to see it.
Unluckily it will not be visible in major parts of South-America , about half part in Africa and a small part of Europe.
Eastern Hemisphere can see it while sun rising and Western Hemisphere can see it while sunset.
 
Download an image of the 2004 transit. Print it out and hang it on the wall in a large room. Then back away from it until the Sun is half the width of your pinky. That should give you a pretty good idea of what to expect when looking through an unmagnified filter.
 

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