Phil Ejercito
Today's image total lunar eclipse on Wednesday, February 20. This particular photo shows the shadowed Moon rising above the steeple of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in downtown Madison. "I took 99 shots before this one, which happened to be the best shot of the night, and then my camera batteries died," comments Ejercito about his efforts to get this photo. "There is a lesson to be learned here -- shoot, shoot some more, then keep shooting!"
Many other skywatchers throughout the city were likewise busy snapping images of the astronomical rarity, or viewing it through binoculars and telescopes. Photographer Barry Sherbeck shot close images of the eclipse, while Denise Cusack described viewing the event through a telescope. Another observer noted the difficulties in capturing an image on one of the coldest nights of the winter. Other photos taken around town can be viewed (, ) on Flickr.
"Like many Madisonians I ventured out in the cold, winter night to watch the lunar eclipse and try to take a few pictures with my digital camera," writes Monica Valentinelli about the eclipse, describing the frigid conditions outside as well as cultural interpretations of the phenomenon. "The next lunar eclipse is a few years away," she concludes, "so I hope you had the chance to get out there and enjoy it!"
This is the latest entry of Madison Snaps: photos of Madison-area events and locations. The send a message. There is no compensation for Madison Snaps photos, which are © to the respective photographers.
