20121124 – ARs 1616, 1618, 1619, 1620
Active region 1618 was the one to watch this past week. It was decaying the past few days before this observation two days ago but still contained a ‘beta-gamma-delta’ class magnetic field that could result in X-class flares (per Spaceweather.com). This AR is still hanging in there just inside the western limb but 1620 has stolen the show and is growing.
Below are two more comparisons of hydrogen alpha views compared to white light. Sketched at the eyepiece on the 24th.
Hydrogen alpha sketch created with black Strathmore Artagain paper, white Conte’ crayon and pencil, white Prang pencil, black oil pencil, charcoal pencil.
White light sketch created at the eyepiece with white card stock, felt-tipped black artist pen, charcoal pencil, black oil-based pencil.
Labelled version with active regions identification
The image below is an image from SDO/HMI for further comparison. It would have been captured within 24 hours of my observation.
Photo credit: SDO/HMI via Spaceweather.com
PCW Memorial Observatory - Erika Rix 