| flash spectrum ...photography by Robert B Slobins |
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Image Reference: 2001-912-18 |
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Third Contact Flash Spectrum, Kamilonga Farm - Zambia 21 June 2001
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Totality ends. Although one must rely on predicted contact times at the precise location, the actual times vary from predicted values. One can discern hydrogen lines many seconds outside of totality, especially if there are high prominences. The flash spectrum itself, in which one can see the lines of the lower-altitude gases, lasts only about three seconds. This requires either very fast reflexes or better yet, a film camera with a motor drive. A roll of film can last about 18 seconds. Most digital cameras' buffers have a capacity of only about ten frames and the sensors do not have the exposure tolerance of film.