COMETS

Two comets might be visible and available to photograph at the same time, C/2025 A6 Lemmon, C/2025 R2 SWAN

There are many ways to capture these once in a lifetime showings: both comets in the same frame, individually with landscape, individually with emphasis on tail, individually with emphasis on the body.

You can observe with binoculars, or capture with phone cameras, DSLRs, or Mirrorless cameras. In any case, the use of a steadying device is necessary (including using high power binoculars with narrow fields of view). For phones, you willl need a phone holder and a tripod. You willl not be able to handhold for longer exposures. Also, your phone should be of a later generation and one of the better ones -think iPhone 13 Pro and better and Galaxie S21 and better for reference. Your camera must be able to be used in manual mode and having an intervalometer (either built in or external) is very useful. I have a couple of extra tripods available and 1 extra phone holder but I encourage you to get your own as they are inexpensive and readily available (think Amazon if you irder by tomorrow, or Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and more if sourcing locally), the equipment is useful for many occasions not just this one time use.
I compiled a suggested settings for different types of cameras and lenses but because there are so many combinations, I cannot fit all the informationmation here. Private message me out of the MeetUp link and I willll get the info (Pdf or plain text) to you. I would prefer for everyone participating to have the info ahead of time but will have a few printouts available the night of the event. I’ll work on a graphic and upload later so you can text me (dont want my personal phone out to the world). For info and links to online tutorials. Please do some research for your particular equipment and set up (youtube is my preference as it is visual).
Don’t get me wrong, the general settings will be included in the info i send, just dont have the time to research if your canera has manual mode or a built in intervalometer) l too will be trying to take pictures but will be glad to help.
I will also caution you by stating that comets and weather are fickle creatures and we may have to adjust the date to accommodate them. So far, the weather for Monday night has changed 3 times in the last two weeks and so, here we are with a late announcement. There may be additional dates added for a similar outing but if Monday night works, it will be best as it will be close to a new moon, close for the best comet positioning and will mitigate problems that will arise later in the week or month. I will be scouting tonight and tomorrow night Wed/Thur) for places where a decent landscape can be included. If you have a good location, let me know so it can be considered. Leads willl be greatly appreciated. For those of you concentrating on the comet and its tail, a foreground is not important but we must accommodate everyone.

Know that it may take a while to take a goodd picture. It willl get cold so wear appropriate gear. A hat, gloves, and/or a jacket mighty be necessary to be out in the elements. You willl need a red light to move around or change settings (I have a couple of extras) -etiquette: don’t point at anyone or mess up their fields of view, poin down and near you. Try to park your vehicle facing away from the photographers, turn off vehicle dome and interior lights if vehicle is close to others. Bringing some snacks and beverages, ask for help, and mostly try hard, learn, and have fun.

Featured photo courtesy of Tim Lyden