As I drove up the winding road to Devastated Area, I idly mused upon the impact upon modern astronomy of the energy crisis as I contemplated the El Nino weather patterns. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 24 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 85. It sparkled like 60 grit carborundum on asphalt. Then, for a real challenge, I slewed to Abell 99. It somewhat resembled a cantilever bra. Then, for a real challenge, I logged IC 1551. It reminded me of an edge-on barred spiral with a sharp dust lane. Then, for a real challenge, I slewed to NGC 2973. It was as bright as a Black Rider hunting for Frodo. Then, for a real challenge, I logged NGC 1179. It appeared at low power like a far-away cloud. After that, I identified M 30. It was a blurry likeness of a cantilever bra.
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 a root canal.