NavList:

David C,

You wrote:

I want to learn the manual method [of clearing lunars].

I highly recommend Frank's "Easy Lunars" page. It's linked on the same main lunars page as his online clearing tool. It was learning this method of clearing lunars 'manually' (with a handheld scientific calculator) that led me to NavList in the first place. Frank suggested I visit here after I contacted him directly for assistance. Be aware, however, that the method outlined therein "... is also prone to error when the lunar distance itself is below 15 degrees or the altitudes of the objects are below 15 degrees, and it should not be used under those circumstances."

I also recommend the "Stark Tables for Clearing the Lunar Distance". They are a great way to clear a lunar without the luxury of modern electronic gadgetry and I have used them many times with great success. The book includes sample lunars and forms which make the somewhat confusing method a little easier to follow. Bruce Stark states in the instructions that even this method can be prone to error for lunar distances of five degrees or less.

Good luck, and welcome to the club of "lunies". ;)

Regards,

Sean C.

PS

If you want some sample problems to work, just let me know. Or, use the search function here on NavList and look for any messages from me between 2012 and now with the word "Lunars" in the subject. Cheers!