X-Sender: cidadao@mail.telepac.pt
Date: Fri, 26 Jan 2001 17:52:06 +0000
From: Antonio Cidadao <a.cidadao@mail.telepac.pt>
Subject: Jupiter data (Jan 25 and 25)

Hello all,

Here are the latest Jupiter images I obtained, which also contain the first
methane-band data obtained so far.

The CH4 filter was manufactured by Custom Scientific, Arizona, CW=889nm;
FWHM=5nm; peak transmitance 78%. 60sec integrations were used.

Weather conditions remained unfavourable, with very strong wind plus
frequent clouds that  disturbed long integrations. During all the methane
integrations obtained until now the warning leds from the AO-2 unit
frequently flashed to indicate that the stabilizing capacity had been
surpassed. Thus, better results are expected with proper conditions.

All methane images show a bright EZ and polar caps (particularly S), and an
irregularly dark NEB.

The Jan24 methane image shows oval BA, and what may be the smaller oval
that follows it. A very faint lighter band in mid SEB is seen. Although the
South Equatorial disturbance "p" end is included in this image, no
"step-in" of the bright EZ is seen with this filter. Unfortunately, I had
no opportunity to grab a clear or IR image.

Jan25 methane images show the GRS and an interesting bright cloud in mid
SEB, following the GRS (arrowed). This cloud, and the context where it
occurs, is seen in a clear filter image obtained a few minutes later. It is
also present in Jan 23 Ed Grafton's color images.

Finally, one of the clear filter images obtained on Jan 25 shows the
current SSTB ovals position. The 2 "f" ovals continue to be very close.

Good observations!

Antonio