Observations of 2006 March 29 total solar eclipse in
Karachai-Cherkesia.
Russian
The 200 km wide shadow of the total eclipse went from Turkey,
crossed Black Sea and Abhazia, and its centrum passed
near the highest Caucasus mountain Elbrus. So it covered
south-eastern half of Karachai-Cherkesian Republic of Russia.
The Special Astrophysical Observatory was located at the edge
of the shadow, and a single interior contact was seen from the
upper observational site at the 6-m telescope BTA. We have rented
a bus and have a journey to mountain-pass on the road from
Karachaevsk to Kislovodsk with a small group of astronomers,
their guests and relatives. Duration of total phase at the site
of observation was of about 2.3 minutes.
There were some low cumulous clouds
over the mountain-pass, and therefore we had to return back to
canion. We took place just on the roadside, and prepared for
observations. Some small clouds might interfere the observations
but they were so low that one could leave their shadows. As became
colder, they melt rapidly away. We used digital camera Fuji
FinePixel to take photos.
Map of Karachai-Cherkesia showing
the site of observation.
In the total phase of the eclipse the sky was blue, and we
did not see any stars in the sky. The landscape was illuminated
by a strange purple light, that we suggested the radiation
of solar chromosphere. This light was stronger in the beginning
and in the end and weaker in the middle of totality.
We did not see any peculiar behaviour of animals. Cows were
going by with a cool quietness. But not the people. Just in
the total phase, a car with inhabitants stopped nearby, and
they run up to us. They were very afraid and asked
"What is this? When will this end?"
We said that in one and half minutes and give them look in
the optical tube. They got to know that we came especially to
observe the eclipse and relax.
A minute before the total phase.
Red hexagon is a flash of camera optics.
Few seconds before the total phase.
Beginning of the total phase.
Wide-field view of totally
eclipsed Sun.
All successful photos taken
in the phase of totality.
Being well equipped.
Discussing the results.
Goranskij, V.P., Sternberg Astronomical Institute;
Barsukova, E.A. Special Astrophysical Observatory.