As I drove up the winding road to my secret observing location, I idly mused upon the socioeconomic impact of this Pale Blue Dot we call home as I contemplated the approaching back of the front... would seeing and transparancy improve soon?. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 28 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 107. It appeared to be dandruff on black satin pajamas. Then, for a real challenge, I helped a beginner find Abell 50 in a group of stars that looked like an armadillo. It reminded me of a smoke ring.
After a short break to warm up in the car, I had a chance to see IC 1942 in Lepus. It looked uncannily like the invisible man. Next, I hunted for IC 1829 in Orion. It reminded me of a little triangle. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I tried B 237. It gave the appearance of a swarm of bees.
Finally, it was time to pack up and leave. As I drove home, I contemplated the events of the night, and realized that any night out under the sky with good friends is better than spending a day at the mall with my teenage daughter.