Drawn to the Universe
JUNE 2011 – H-Alpha Solar

Sketch of the Sun in H-Alpha

H-Alpha Sketch of Sun

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June 2011 Astronomy Now thumbnail
Subject: H-Alpha Sun
Issue: June 2011 Astronomy Now
Basic Media: Graphite and erasers white stock
Featured Technique: Preparing an H-Alpha Solar Sketch that captures surface features and prominences along the limb.
Suggested Sketching Materials:
  • Clipboard and acid-free drawing paper
  • HB and 2H graphite pencils
  • Charcoal pencil
  • Vinyl eraser pencil and craft knife
  • Large black or pink rubber
  • Chamois
H-Alpha Sketch of the Sun by Erika Rix

H-Alpha Sketch of the Sun by Erika Rix

Click image to view larger version.

The highly detailed sketch above was contributed by Erika Rix of Ohio, USA. The full disc H-Alpha sketch was prepared scopeside using black Strathmore Artagain paper, white Conte’ crayon and pencil, Derwent charcoal pencil, and black oil pencil. One of the benefits of sketching white on black is that the entire image is displayed in positive format. Erika also notes that the black stock is much easier on the eyes when switching between eyepiece and sketch. More of Erika’s sketches, and discussion of her sketching techniques can be found at http://pcwobservatory.com.