Conditions at Coe have been quite stable recently.
Temps range higher than in the valleys:
during my four observing sessions since December, temps
fell within a 2 degree range, from 52 to 54 degrees F.
Humidity has been very dry: never higher than 30% and as low as 24% RH. *No dew.*
Optical conditions have been largely favorable. One night was blemished by winds and moderately unsteady skies. The remaining three sessions were steady; one session, December 28, was blessedly steady and transparent.
Viewing: with a C-11, I have been able to visually count seven stars in Trapezium group. The SCT view:
+ *
*
+
* *
+
I have finally been able to log a visual on Barnard 33, which was enhanced further using OIII. I was also able to "see" (at the limit of my vision) the faint red background color through the OIII.
Over the nights I have been able to observe until dawn (or moonrise). I logged over 110 Herschel objects, and only wish that nights were longer.
Before breakdown on my last session I was also able to observe Centaurus A and Omega Centauri. I was able to get down to the horizons.
Now, I have lawn work to do ;( and work to deal with once more ;((.
It was fun while it lasted!