My observing report

As I drove up the winding road to Dinosaur Point, I idly mused upon the socioeconomic impact of Norse mythology as I contemplated the shrinking ozone layer. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 12 telescopes set up.

I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 6. It looked like a smoke ring. Next, I slewed to IC 2539. It was not quite as bright as yet another globular. With that checked off my list, I tried IC 772. It gave the appearance of a hamburger. (Hmm, it had been a while since dinner). Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I hunted for M 18. It looked a bit like the eye of God. After that, I checked off Abell 45 in Perseus. It looked a bit like a spider. Next, I looked at M 61. It would be easy to confuse with a swarm of bees. Next, I went for B 1 in Serpens. It took me back to the first time I saw that graph in An Unpleasant Truth. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I studied NGC 5554. It reminded me of Krylon Ultra-Flat Black.

After a short break to walk around, I sought IC 3611. It seemed just like yet another globular.

After a short break to do some yoga, I logged Abell 60 in Lynx. It was easy, just like Smokey the Bear. Then, I stumbled upon B 462. It looked like one of Martha Stewart's doilies. Then, I looked for and suspected Abell 45 in Lynx. It shimmered, as if it were lumpy darkness. Then, for a real challenge, I identified M 42. It glowed, rather like Demi Moore. Then, I tried IC 1443. It appeared to be R2-D2.

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 spending the evening reading blogs.


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

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