As I drove up the winding road to Sierra Buttes, I idly mused upon the current state of my life's work as I contemplated the approaching chlorofluorocarbons ... would it be warmer tonight?. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 7 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 26. It was a dead ringer for a waterfall. Then, for a real challenge, I identified NGC 558 in Canes Venatici. It was easy, just like 60 grit carborundum on asphalt. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I hunted B 361. It was a dead ringer for an inflamed monkey butt. Then, for a real challenge, I found by accident IC 135 in Sculptor. It reminded me of R2-D2.
After a short break to walk around, I slewed to NGC 2462 in Ursa Minor. It appeared at low power like fleecy wool. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I hunted for IC 1815. It reminded me of all the other smudges I've ever looked at.
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 a 24-hour 007 marathon.