My observing report

As I drove up the winding road to Sierra Buttes, I idly mused upon the deep mystery of the energy crisis as I contemplated the past week of rain. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 39 telescopes set up.

I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 16 in Ursa Major. It compared favorably with the clouds I'd seen earlier. Next, I sketched Abell 48 in Perseus. It appeared at low power like a waterfall. Then, I sought B 230. It seemed most like the eye of God. Then, I stumbled upon IC 3720. It looked like a cantilever bra. After that, I sketched NGC 1304 in Gemini. It glowed, rather like Krylon Ultra-Flat Black.

After a short break to enjoy a nutritious snack, I hunted for M 21. It appeared at low power like R2-D2.

After a short break to cut some cheese, I showed some guests M 99. It appeared to be a smoke ring. Then, for a real challenge, I found IC 174. It looked a bit like Gollum.

After a short break to cut some cheese, I sought IC 48. It somewhat resembled Santa Claus. Next, I logged B 154. It would be easy to confuse with the last six objects I'd seen. With that checked off my list, I accidentally located NGC 2357. It was better than diamonds on black velvet. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I glimpsed IC 2315. It was easy, just like cotton candy. Then, I observed M 21 in Scorpius. It was as bright as the pillars of creation. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I found by accident B 462 in Camelopardalis. It somewhat resembled a dodo bird, extinct but for this celestial likeness.

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 listening to the Monkees Box Set.


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

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