Lake Sonoma 1/17/09

Renato del Resario

It was one of the best nights I've had there since Summer, 2003. I was surprised to use 300-400X with no image deterioration on several targets. NGC 2371-2 easily showed its bi-polar dumbbell like fuzzy structure. As best as I could describe it, the eskimo hinted of an inner dark ring @300-400X in addition to a blue-green hue. I also stumbled on what turned out to be ngc 1931. It looked like a bright fuzzy peanut amidst a panoramic starry field @93X (100 degress FOV). The Rosette nebula was obvious; I had fun switching views unfiltered and filtered to view the nebulosity and the "core" star cluster.

Galaxies showed individual character too even at medium power. I had fun comparing the views of NGC 147, 185 and 278 amidst a rich starry field @93X. The 100 FOV really enhanced the visual experience of observing these objects. Seeing the close pair 672 and IC1727 was also a first for me.

All in all, a memorable night. I'm glad Caroline and I came.

Clears,
Renato


Observing Reports Observing Sites GSSP 2010, July 10 - 14
Frosty Acres Ranch
Adin, CA

OMG! Its full of stars.
Golden State Star Party
Join Mailing List
Mailing List Archives

Current Observing Intents

Click here
for more details.