aYup, that worked! Here's a comparison with the original method (binocs):
And a comparison of the double images from the binocs over the single of the spotting scope:
As the scope was on a tripod, it was a lot steadier. And as I didn't have to sit there and hold the binocs, they got put down at this point.
Slow graduation... From this at near the start:
To this at about peak performance:
The light became a little subdued, and did change towards the blue end of the spectrum near the end. Most noticeable was that the heat of the sun went away, and at it's peak it was downright chilly out there!
A final, and perhaps the most interesting shot. Right at the peak we noticed the rays of the sun that were being filtered through the tree branches above us perfectly mimicked the crescent in the scope shadow! Very interesting, pretty much an unexpected event. We also happened to notice the same effect anywhere in the yard the light was being filtered through the branches & leaves...
Most likely the last one the two of us will ever see, so worth the hour and a bit to take it in for us...
Cheers,
Nog
