My observing report

As I drove up the winding road to Sierra Buttes, I idly mused upon the study of the energy crisis as I contemplated the crystal-clear skies. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 16 telescopes set up.

I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 44 in Ophiuchus. It somewhat resembled a cantilever bra. Then, for a real challenge, I nudged my telescope to NGC 4669. It seemed most like nothing I'd ever seen before. After that, I identified M 13. It was better than the eye of God. Then, I hunted for IC 2687. It shimmered, as if it were the eternal nothingness of being. With that checked off my list, I stumbled upon B 435. It reminded me of nothing I'd ever seen before.

After a short break to cut some cheese, I found by accident M 63 in the western sky. It looked a bit like a spitting cobra. With that checked off my list, I identified M 28 in Lyra. It gave the appearance of the exhaust from a diesel Suburban. Next, I tried M 83. It looked exactly like lumpy darkness. Then, I tracked down Abell 70 in Lyra. It was better than cotton candy.

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 stale peeps.


    ...Akkana (with help from David North, Jane Houston Jones, and Bill Arnett) .

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