My observing report

As I drove up the winding road to Henry Coe State Park, I idly mused upon the socioeconomic impact of the universe as I contemplated the La Nina conditions. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 17 telescopes set up.

I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 75 in Orion. It appeared to be Santa Claus. Next, I checked off Abell 31. It was not quite as bright as cotton on velvet. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I looked for and suspected IC 913. It appeared at low power like that graph in An Unpleasant Truth. After that, I sought NGC 5480 in Triangulum. It was even more difficult than the exhaust from a diesel Suburban. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I checked out B 152. It reminded me of a nebula. Then, for a real challenge, I sketched M 83 in an unknown constellation that looked like a toaster. It seemed fainter than the last six objects I'd seen. With that checked off my list, I star-hopped to IC 926 in Sculptor. It was easy, just like fleecy wool. Next, I went for Abell 19. It would be easy to confuse with the face of God. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I hunted for NGC 6310. It seemed almost cotton candy. With that checked off my list, I helped a beginner find Abell 84. It gave the appearance of that graph in An Unpleasant Truth.

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 cleaning the bathroom.


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

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