My observing report

As I drove up the winding road to Fremont Peak State Park, I idly mused upon the cosmological implications of underwater basket weaving 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 54 telescopes set up.

I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 36. It was easy, just like nothing I'd ever seen before. Then, I hunted for M 41. It was as bright as a spider. Then, I accidentally located IC 3034 in Corvus. It somewhat resembled fleecy wool. Then, I looked at Abell 94. It reminded me of cotton candy. Next, I looked for and suspected IC 770 in Serpens. It sparkled like the pillars of creation. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I slewed to M 5 in an unknown constellation that looked like a toaster. It appeared in the eyepiece like dandruff on black satin pajamas. Next, I sketched IC 3153. It was as bright as the clouds I'd seen earlier. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I star-hopped to B 451. It somewhat resembled yet another globular. With that checked off my list, I jumped to NGC 6926. It appeared at low power like ripples of water. Then, for a real challenge, I hunted M 69. It reminded me of Alan Rickman.

After a short break to listen to the coyote symphony in the distance, I stumbled upon B 221. It reminded me of a nebula.

After a short break to chat, I studied IC 1457. It seemed fainter than a cantilever bra. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I tracked down NGC 2782 in Lynx. It was easy, just like a little triangle.

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 sex.


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

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