My observing report

As I drove up the winding road to Pacheco, I idly mused upon the impact upon modern astronomy of my 401K 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 49 telescopes set up.

I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 79. It appeared in the eyepiece like cotton candy. Then, I hunted for NGC 4842. It was easy, just like black pearls on flocked paper. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I found by accident IC 600. It was even more difficult than a Black Rider hunting for Frodo. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I located IC 27. It seemed fainter than a dodo bird, extinct but for this celestial likeness.

After a short break to check my email, I looked at M 73 in the western sky. It looked uncannily like Krylon Ultra-Flat Black. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I identified IC 1816 in Sculptor. It seemed just like 60 grit carborundum on asphalt.

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 yet another town star party with clueless newbies.


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

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