As I drove up the winding road to Sierra Buttes, I idly mused upon the popularity of Plato's Republic as I contemplated the approaching back of the front... would seeing and transparancy improve soon?. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 25 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 60 in Scutum. It seemed fainter than its Hubble photograph. With that checked off my list, I accidentally located IC 23. It was a dead ringer for dandruff on black satin pajamas. With that checked off my list, I accidentally located IC 229. It was like the pillars of creation. With that checked off my list, I checked off Abell 82. It was even more difficult than fleecy wool. After that, I observed Abell 39. It was even more difficult than Alan Rickman. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I located IC 1985. It would be easy to confuse with ripples of water. Then, I star-hopped to NGC 1312. It was not quite as bright as ripples of water. Then, I looked at Abell 1. It seemed fainter than cotton candy.
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 looking at another first attempt to image the Lagoon Nebula.