Observing at Coe

10/2

No, I was not observing with my new 14.5" Starmaster. Delivery is scheduled for this week.

I did have an enjoyable time with my binocular, starting with the Vandenberg launch. I spent some time looking at my favorite asterism, the seven sisters. Also noticed how the beautiful color in Aldebaran really comes out through the binocular.

After spending some time with the binocular and looking at various magnifications through some big dobs, I tend to agree with a recent thread praising the lower magnification views. I think my first really good eyepiece might be a 32mm rather than the shorter, higher magnification I was originally considering.

Thanks to everyone for sharing great views. I enjoyed the color of the "pink" bunny (which looked gold to me), and the blue and yellow of Albireo. It was fun trying to detect the faint fuzzies through the big dobs.

I drew two beautiful pictures of Jupiter. I also agree with the recent thread that mentioned the virtues of drawing. That is a great way to catch details of all the various features on the planet. WoW! All the scopes offered great views! I am convinced I will be able to draw beautiful pictures of Jupiter with my scope (when it gets here!).

Saturn was gorgeous as always. I saw the division in the "A" ring for the first time.

Thanks for the wonderful birthday wishes, card and cake. I had a splendid time!