Steve’s Virtual Planet

Viewing the Lunar Straight Wall

One of the interesting aspects of observing our Moon is that many features are only visible during certain times within the full cyclic phasing of the moon. Details come and go depending on the angle of sunlight reflecting off the lunar surface and coming back to Earth. As Galileo noticed over 400 years ago, the shadow line (known as the Terminator) moves across the lunar landscape and illuminates the surface differently as it progresses across. He even used this phenomena as a tool for measuring the height of lunar features.

One such detail that is only revealed at two specific times in the cycle is the so-called “Lunar Straight Wall“. This feature is one of the best examples of a linear fault, also called a rille. When you’re looking anywhere near Mare Nubium, it’s quite prominent as an almost straight line. However, it turns out that it is easy to see ONLY on the first day past 1st Quarter or 3rd Quarter. The reason why it’s only visible around this time is because of the shadow that it casts when struck with the sunlight at just the correct angle. For the rest of the month, it’s virtually hidden because it doesn’t create a good shadow.

I have found several references online, like the one from Wikipedia in my previous post. The Lunar Straight Wall is also known by it’s Latin name Rupes Recta. I’ve included another link below from Sky and Telescope magazine with more great images of the feature. Here, lunar observing authority Charles Wood has a great article about Rupes Recta with some very fine images of this feature.

You can find it easy enough with a small telescope of perhaps 50 mm or more. That also puts this object within reach of binoculars though you’ll need to steady your hold by bracing against something or using a tripod. Use the resources above so you know where to find it and look for it on the day after first quarter or third quarter. That’s only two nights per month, making it a little more precious of a view. So, for the next two months, those dates are - March 3 and 17, April 2 and 15 and May 15, and a bonus view on May 30.

Good luck with the weather! Clear Skies! (hopefully)