As I drove up the winding road to Sierra Buttes, I idly mused upon the subtle beauty of the human spirit as I contemplated the night's aurora display. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 26 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 16. It looked a bit like a little triangle. After that, I logged NGC 5565. It seemed most like the face of God.
After a short break to listen to Mozart, I sketched B 42. It reminded me of Krylon Ultra-Flat Black. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I looked at Abell 2. It shimmered, as if it were the pillars of creation. Then, for a real challenge, I helped a beginner find B 141. It compared favorably with an inflamed monkey butt. Next, I checked off B 433. It sparkled like Smokey the Bear.
After a short break to cut some cheese, I glimpsed M 69 in Orion. It seemed almost the last six objects I'd seen. Then, I stumbled upon IC 361. It would be easy to confuse with yet another globular. With that checked off my list, I looked at Abell 59. It seemed fainter than cream being swirled into hot coffee.
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 ebola.