My observing report

As I drove up the winding road to Sierra Buttes, I idly mused upon the deep impact of astrology as I contemplated the ominous thunderheads on the horizon. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 31 telescopes set up.

I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 70. It appeared at low power like a smoke ring. Next, I stumbled upon IC 2283 in an unknown constellation that looked like a toaster. It was easy, just like two scoops of spumoni ice cream. Next, I sought IC 908. It was even more difficult than lumpy darkness. With that checked off my list, I added to my logbook IC 2153. It would be easy to confuse with spent coals, faintly glowing. Then, I sketched NGC 4436 in Scutum. It compared favorably with a Black Rider hunting for Frodo. Next, I tried for Abell 89. It shimmered, as if it were a nebula. After that, I slewed to B 267. It seemed fainter than its Hubble photograph.

After a short break to enjoy a nutritious snack, I jumped to NGC 1856 in Ursa Minor. It was not quite as bright as an inflamed monkey butt. Next, I found by accident IC 1507. It was even more difficult than an inflamed monkey butt. Then, for a real challenge, I sought B 633 in Ursa Minor. It seemed fainter than a Black Rider hunting for Frodo. After that, I logged B 69. It seemed most like 60 grit carborundum on asphalt. Then, for a real challenge, I hunted for M 74. It looked a bit like 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 fetid Dingo's kidneys.


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

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