2004 Venus Transit from Columbia Missouri

Spectaular is the only word that comes close to describing the view this morning of the Transit of Venus. Paul Rothove had his 100mm TAL refractor on the roof, and Allen Thompson had both his 80mm, f/15 refractor (with a Herschel Wedge!) and his C-8 with a full aperture solar filter. Early on the situation did not look good as clouds abounded above and to the West.

Here is a view to the northwest as we set up, around 5:00 a.m. It looked as though the clouds might overtake us soon.

When the Sun began to rise we could see it, big time! Here is the view about 5:40 a.m. looking over the top of Paul's 100mm.

Photo shows Tom Vaughn, left, watching the transit with filters, naked eye. Venus was HUGE since it was about as close to the Earth as it can get. No problem picking it up, without optical aid.

Here is Paul Rothove photographing through his new 100mm TAL refractor.

Here are the results of his efforts... Wow!

Here is Allen Thompson and his C-8, which gave very fine views at high power.

Photo is of Allen adjusting his 80mm refractor. Note Herschel Wedge which gave SHARP views.

Right after 3rd contact

Val writing citations to non-members for showing up without permission seriously all are welcome

Another unlucky person

The sun and venus rising out of the east Columbia foliage and murk. Courtesy of Wilson Beckett