Observing Log
I record every opportunity to observe as an observing session, whether it is an all night session
at a star party or a quick thirty minutes from the porch in the back yard.
Observing sessions allow me to
record facts about the session such as the weather, location, seeing, and transparency for an entire
group of observations rather than duplicating this information in each observation record. Additionally,
I add notes or other information not related to a specific observation to the session record.
Below, you will find a listing of the observing sessions in my log presented in reverse chronological order.
2010
Observed for 33.75 hours during 9 sessions while
recording 168 observations of
157 objects with 56 objects being observed for the first time.
Indian Summer
Nov 09, 2010, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 18 observations
In the Midwest, clear skies with 60°F temperatures in November are a gift that should not be wasted. I setup my 120mm refractor and worked on the visible targets from the Astronomical League Double Star observing list.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2010
Oct 10, 2010, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 4 observations
The culmination of the star party week and eight straight nights of wonderful observing weather—sure to be a record for some time.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2010
Oct 09, 2010, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 20 observations
I am definitely a list person and I like working lists of objects to maximize my time under a dark sky. Occasionally, I just open the Sky Atlas 2000.0 to a page of a constellation that is nicely placed in the sky (where I don’t have to climb a ladder or stoop over) and I start looking for the objects on that chart.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2010
Oct 08, 2010, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 25 observations
It is another great night under dark skies working on my observation plan. This plan has me observing a lot of globular clusters and galaxies. I even manage to view a comet as it passes the Double Cluster.
Illinois Dark Skies Star Party 2010
Sep 12, 2010, JEPC State Fish & Wildlife Park, IL - 20 observations
At least the pouring rain that arrived the night before moved out and left a beautiful night tonight. The excellent transparency of the skies this evening gave some of the best views I have had in quite some time.
Indiana Family Star Party 2010
Aug 07, 2010, Prairie Grass Observatory, IN - 14 observations
Sometimes, albeit not often, I am not in the mood to record everything I observe. This weekend is one of those times. I spent two of the three nights at the IFSP just looking and sharing the views with others. Tonight I worked around the constellation of Draco observing some faint galaxies for the first time.
Two Rivers Spring Star Party 2010
May 15, 2010, Heavens Gate Farm, IL - 9 observations
Mother Nature has her own ideas of when she is going to throw some weather your way. The best I can do tonight is dodge the clouds for as long as I can and observe through the occasional clear spots in the sky. Nonetheless, I manage to catch a few galaxies in between the clouds.
2009
Observed for 28 hours during 12 sessions while
recording 139 observations of
134 objects with 38 objects being observed for the first time.
Earth, Wind and Sky Star Party 2009
Aug 23, 2009, Heavens Gate Farm, IL - 20 observations
With a good southern view, I spent a couple of hours touring through Sagittarius before chasing down some galaxies in Pegasus and Triangulum later in the evening.
Earth, Wind and Sky Star Party 2009
Aug 22, 2009, Heavens Gate Farm, IL - 26 observations
Despite being clouded out for an hour, the night shaped up to be a good night for viewing lots of faint galaxies and nebula mainly in the constellation Perseus.
Earth, Wind and Sky Star Party 2009
Aug 21, 2009, Heavens Gate Farm, IL - 10 observations
Sometimes I am just not in the mood to chase down faint fuzzies that I can barely detect with averted vision. That is when I drag out the Messier list and my torn, tattered and well worn Telrad map of the Messier objects and I just have fun looking at the bright stuff.
It started with a flash
Aug 15, 2009, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 16 observations
I started the evening out by observing my first daytime Iridium flare high overhead right at sunset and the -8 magnitude flare was surprisingly easy to see. I setup the 25x100 binoculars and observed for about three hours before the clouds put an end to the session.
A break in the clouds
Aug 03, 2009, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 20 observations
Finally it came, a clear night—albeit not on a weekend night as I preferred, but this year I will take any clear night when I can get it. I setup the 25x100 binoculars on the deck in the backyard just after sunset. I hopped and skipped around grabbing a few bright Messier objects and some additional open clusters. I finished the night with a few double stars and a peek at the king of the planets Jupiter and even got fooled by a faux moon Io.
The new binocular mount
Jul 07, 2009, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 3 observations
Tonight, I assembled my new Universal Astronomics UniMount and setup the 25x100 binoculars to observe some double stars and the Moon. I started with a few targets from the Spirit of 33 Binocular Double Stars observing list but quickly became frustrated with the washed out sky (from the full moon) making star hopping extremely difficult. After observing a few doubles, I spent some time examining the Moon and its lunar rays.
Lunar Occultation of Antares
Jun 07, 2009, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 1 observations
Despite the tripod shaking in the stiff breeze, and my having to occasionally adjust it to compensate for the Earth’s rotation, I captured both the disappearance and reappearance of Antares on video as it slid behind the Moon and back out again.
Two Rivers Spring Star Party 2009
Apr 25, 2009, Heavens Gate Farm, IL - 6 observations
It was Day 2 of the Two Rivers Spring Star Party, and despite the windy conditions, I managed to chase down several objects high overhead in the constellation Draco. However, around 10:30 p.m. the clouds moved in and covered the sky. I waited until 2:00 a.m. to see if the clouds would clear, but they never did, so I called in a night. I only managed to observe six objects during the session with five objects being observed for the first time.
Two Rivers Spring Star Party 2009
Apr 24, 2009, Heavens Gate Farm, IL - 22 observations
It is hard to believe that it is April already and my first star party event of the year has come and gone—the inaugural Two Rivers Spring Star Party held at the Heavens Gate Farm outside Barry, IL. During the first night of the star party, I observed twenty-two objects with ten objects being observed for the first time.
Chasing comet Lulin
Jan 23, 2009, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 1 observations
I set the alarm for 4:45 a.m. this morning so I could get up and try to get a glimpse of Comet Lulin.
Observing arctic style
Jan 16, 2009, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 13 observations
The first observing session of the year shattered the record for the coldest temperature recorded during an observing session. At -13°F the binoculars were froze, but I still managed to observe a baker’s dozen objects in Orion, Taurus, and Gemini.
2008
Observed for 81 hours during 22 sessions while
recording 461 observations of
431 objects with 179 objects being observed for the first time.
Observing amongst spooks and goblins
Nov 01, 2008, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 13 observations
Here in the Midwest, it is not often we experience a Halloween night with temperatures in the 60’s, low humidity, and clear skies. While my plan to setup in the front yard to show Jupiter to the Halloween visitors did not work out as I expected, I did manage to view several Messier objects during the evening.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2008
Oct 04, 2008, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 27 observations
My third day at the Twin Lakes Star Party was as perfect a day as one could wish. I observed until 4:00 a.m. even managing a celestial sightseeing tour in the middle of the night.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2008
Oct 03, 2008, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 34 observations
The second night of the Twin Lakes Star Party brought with it some of the best seeing conditions this year. I took advantage of the skies and logged seven hours worth of observations.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2008
Oct 02, 2008, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 13 observations
I filled the first night of the 19th annual Twin Lakes Star Party with a little observing and lots of visiting with old friends. I managed a peek at the Andromeda galaxy with its companion galaxies and some double stars in Cassiopeia in between the visiting.
Illinois Dark Skies Star Party 2008
Sep 28, 2008, JEPC State Fish & Wildlife Park, IL - 38 observations
It was an enjoyable evening with temperatures in the sixties and beautiful clear skies. I started the evening hunting some open clusters in Lacerta and jumped over to galaxy chasing in Triangulum and Andromeda until around around 2:00 a.m.
Illinois Dark Skies Star Party 2008
Sep 27, 2008, JEPC State Fish & Wildlife Park, IL - 43 observations
The second night of the Illinois Dark Skies Star Party 2008 and the seeing this evening is amazing and the skies are rock steady. As a result, I managed to resolve detail and view fainter stars than I have this season.
Illinois Dark Skies Star Party 2008
Sep 26, 2008, JEPC State Fish & Wildlife Park, IL - 33 observations
The first night of the Illinois Dark Skies Star Party brought plenty of clear skies and lots of observing. I logged thirty-one objects over approximately six hours. Sleep deprivation never felt so good.
Earth, Wind and Sky Star Party 2008
Aug 31, 2008, Heavens Gate Farm, IL - 37 observations
The second night of the Earth, Wind, and Sky Star Party found me observing objects in the constellations over the northern horizon including Cassiopeia and Perseus.
Earth, Wind and Sky Star Party 2008
Aug 30, 2008, Heavens Gate Farm, IL - 27 observations
Despite the extremely heavy dew and high humidity, the first night of the inaugural Earth, Wind, and Sky Star Party was a success. Under excellent skies, I managed several hours of observing before running out of gas late in the morning.
Indiana Family Star Party 2008
Aug 03, 2008, Prairie Grass Observatory, IN - 26 observations
The third and final day of the Indiana Family Star Party came with plenty of sunshine, beautifully clear skies and lots of observing. With another steady sky, I managed to chase down and observe several objects than I had never observed before.
Indiana Family Star Party 2008
Aug 02, 2008, Prairie Grass Observatory, IN - 27 observations
Night two of the IFSP 2008 proved to be better than the first night. With steady and transparent skies, I boosted the magnification and toured the summer Milky Way looking for globular clusters above the southern horizon.
Indiana Family Star Party 2008
Aug 01, 2008, Prairie Grass Observatory, IN - 15 observations
The first evening of IFSP 2008 started the weekend off great, sans the heavy dew, and I logged several globular clusters and planetary nebulae, as well as many other objects.
Looking through the light dome
Jul 02, 2008, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 15 observations
I observed for a couple of hours through the light dome that extends over the southern horizon logging mostly globular clusters, finishing up the session by logging a few open clusters in the constellation Vulpecula.
Strike while the iron is hot!
Jun 29, 2008, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 19 observations
I managed a couple of hours of observing in between the clouds on a crisp Saturday night logging several Herschel galaxies in Ursa Major.
Two are better than one
Jun 07, 2008, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 14 observations
I spent a couple of hours observing double stars in the back yard on a hot and humid summer night.
Hunting for Herschel's - Part II
May 29, 2008, Rest Area, Camp Grove, IL - 27 observations
For a couple of hours, I enjoyed working my way through Ursa Major observing a host of Herschel galaxies.
Hunting for Herschel's
May 06, 2008, Rest Area, Camp Grove, IL - 9 observations
This evening I played a great game of "sucker hole" observing while trying to observe some objects in the Astronomical League Herschel 400 list.
Short but sweet
May 03, 2008, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 5 observations
I setup the 12x60 binoculars on my parallelogram mount and grabbed a Telrad chart for the Messier objects. I toured around the eastern sky for about an hour hunting Messier objects.
Friday night lights
Mar 29, 2008, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 19 observations
It is Friday night and the lights are in the sky instead of on the football field. The weather cooperated during the weekend for a change and I took the opportunity to setup the 14.5" scope in the backyard.
Desperate measures for desperate times
Mar 13, 2008, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 10 observations
This evening was not a particularly great one for observing, but compared to the poor conditions of the past few months, it would do. I was desperate enough to ignore the stiff breeze, the somewhat chilly temperatures, and some pesky clouds just to get a look at anything.
Lunar Eclipse 2008
Feb 21, 2008, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 1 observations
A break in the weather—more like a break between snow storms—could not have come at a more opportune time. A scarce few high, thin clouds blew across the sky, but nothing that would hamper the watching of the lunar eclipse.
2007
Observed for 56 hours during 14 sessions while
recording 252 observations of
212 objects with 64 objects being observed for the first time.
More comet watching
Oct 30, 2007, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 1 observations
I seized the opportunity to view the extraordinary comet 17P/Holmes this evening.
The big surprise
Oct 25, 2007, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 1 observations
Comet 17P/Holmes shocked astronomers today with a spectacular eruption. I could not pass up the opportunity to view the comet this evening.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2007
Oct 14, 2007, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 12 observations
It was the last night of the star party and we did not expect to get any observing time in this evening. Eventually, the clouds thinned to the point where it was possible to observe for extended periods as the clouds moved across the sky.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2007
Oct 13, 2007, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 37 observations
The second night of the TLSP—or at least my second night at the star party—kept the long running string of great observing nights alive. It is not often that I spend eight continuous hours observing.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2007
Oct 12, 2007, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 33 observations
When I arrived at the Twin Lakes Star Party this year, I found a field full of folks weary from sleep deprivation caused by the previous five nights of great observing weather. To my delight, the great weather held for at least one more night.
The return of Frankenstein
Sep 21, 2007, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 11 observations
I was fooled by the deep blue color of the sky into thinking tonight might be a nice opportunity to observe from the backyard. Nevertheless, I optimistically setup my 120mm refractor (Frankenstein) and started scanning along the terminator of the Moon.
Illinois Dark Skies Star Party 2007
Sep 15, 2007, JEPC State Fish & Wildlife Park, IL - 40 observations
This was my first time to attend the Illinois Dark Skies Star Party, which is a short two-hour drive from my home. I arrived on Friday afternoon, setup the tent and the scope, and worked the sky until 4:00 a.m. Saturday morning.
Indiana Family Star Party 2007
Aug 12, 2007, Prairie Grass Observatory, IN - 25 observations
For the second night of the Indiana Star Party, Io started the show as it transited the planet Jupiter. The rest of the night found me skimming around a short list of targets I developed for the star party.
Indiana Family Star Party 2007
Aug 11, 2007, Prairie Grass Observatory, IN - 17 observations
My son Ryan and I packed up the truck and drove to the Indiana Family Star Party at Camp Cullom, Indiana. I spent the first part of the evening logging several globular clusters and Messier objects that I had not seen in the big scope.
Scoping out a new observing site
Jul 14, 2007, Rest Area, Camp Grove, IL - 15 observations
Steve Porter and I took advantage of the excellent weather to setup our scopes at a nearby rest area. This site offers better viewing conditions than those found in my back yard and although I had visited this site before, this is the first time the big reflector has been setup at the site.
A tour of the Milky Way with binoculars
Jul 07, 2007, Rest Area, Camp Grove, IL - 12 observations
No maps, no charts, no plans, only myself, a pair of binoculars, and the night sky. That is how an impromptu observing session is supposed to shape up. I spent about an hour and a half touring the constellations to the south and east, locating objects from memory, and scanning along the deep star fields of the Milky Way.
A short planet show
May 19, 2007, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 2 observations
As the phrase says, "the best-laid plans of mice and men often go astray". This evening epitomized that phrase. After rolling the scope out and letting it cool down, I managed to get a peek at Venus and Saturn and then watched a large cloudbank move in from the west.
Viewing from atop Mount Locke
May 12, 2007, McDonald Observatory, TX - 12 observations
Bill had driven to Texas and met us at McDonald observatory with his and DaveNULLs 16" scopes in tow. As dusk approached, we began to setup the scopes beside the 36" dome—one of the McDonald Observatory operated scopes on the mountaintop.
2006
Observed for 36.5 hours during 14 sessions while
recording 151 observations of
141 objects with 110 objects being observed for the first time.
A transit of Mercury
Nov 08, 2006, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 1 observations
No one could have wished for a more perfect day to observe the transit of Mercury. The weather for November was unseasonably warm, allowing for some very comfortable viewing conditions.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2006
Oct 21, 2006, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 7 observations
Everyone on the field spent the morning with their fingers crossed, hoping the skies would clear in the afternoon as predicted. It took a little longer than expected, but the clouds began moving out and the blue sky was a welcome sight as it emerged from behind the clouds.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2006
Oct 19, 2006, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 16 observations
None of the weather services predicted the skies clearing this afternoon. To my surprise, and everyone else's, the skies began to clear and as dark approached, the field began to buzz with activity as everyone started frantically setting up their scopes to take advantage of the clear skies.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2006
Oct 15, 2006, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 3 observations
It was a cold, frosty morning as I left my house headed toward the 2006 Twin Lakes Star Party. "Suzy", my 14.5" Telekit scope was packed in the back of the truck for her first road trip. The weather was picture perfect and except for the seven hours of drive time, the trip was enjoyable.
It's always clear when the Moon is up
Oct 04, 2006, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 2 observations
It always seems to be clear when the Moon is high above and tonight was no exception. I scanned along the terminator and near the limb of the Moon just observing all of the magnificent detail in the shadows and bright areas.
Swimming with the Dolphin
Sep 25, 2006, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 11 observations
I have been spending too much time doing virtual astronomy on the Internet and not enough time doing real astronomy. The skies finally cleared today about 3:00 p.m. I created a list of objects in Delphinus, which was well placed overhead early in the evening and fired up the coffee pot.
Revisiting old friends
Aug 13, 2006, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 15 observations
A perfect day lead easily into a perfect night for observing. As the scope cooled, I spent some time gazing across the sky and caught a few stray bright Perseid meteors as they streaked overhead.
In the heat of the night
Jul 29, 2006, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 4 observations
The dog days of summer had arrived in the Midwest and with them came plenty of heat and humidity. I started the evening with a glimpse of Jupiter and moved on to double stars in Aquila.
Double time in Cygnus
Jul 23, 2006, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 14 observations
A beautiful day quickly gave way to heavy clouds and a threat of rain in the late afternoon. Just as quickly as the front moved in, it began to move out as dusk approached. I set my sights on the last doubles left on the S33 list in Cygnus.
Another lazy summer evening
Jul 16, 2006, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 23 observations
The Sun shone brightly in a clear deep blue sky the entire day. I rolled the scope out a little before dark to let it cool after baking in the garage all day and spent the evening continuing my work in Cygnus and Aquila looking for double stars and open clusters.
A lazy summer evening
Jul 15, 2006, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 16 observations
The 70% chance of rain never materialized and the morning and early afternoon clouds departed leaving bright blue skies in the late evening. I setup the scope with only a hodge podge list of objects to chase down.
Swimming with the Swan
Jul 10, 2006, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 14 observations
A 13-day-old moon and bands of clouds moving across the sky—does not sound like the best night for observing. Despite the bleak conditions, it was a great evening for observing some double stars in Cygnus.
Surfing the Big Dipper
Jul 01, 2006, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 18 observations
What a perfect evening for observing, calm winds, warm temperatures, and clear skies. I did not get in any rush setting up the scope, as astronomical twilight does not start until approximately 10:30 p.m. this time of year. I started the evening by hopping around Ursa Major chasing down some galaxies on the Herschel 400 list.
First light for the 14.5" TeleKit
Jun 20, 2006, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 7 observations
This was an exciting evening as it was the official "first light" for my new 14.5" TeleKit telescope. The weather was perfect with warm temperatures, calm winds, and not a cloud in the sky as dark approached.
2005
Observed for 47 hours during 12 sessions while
recording 223 observations of
209 objects with 113 objects being observed for the first time.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2005
Oct 08, 2005, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 27 observations
I eagerly waited for the Moon to drop below the trees to begin my hunt for globular clusters in Sagittarius and Ophiuchus. These constellations would be quickly setting behind the Moon and I wanted to waste no time chasing down the targets I needed for the AL Globular Cluster program.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2005
Oct 06, 2005, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 26 observations
As darkness fell, the warm temperatures of the day began to give way to the coolness of the night air. This quickly became the breeding ground for even another night of the annoying ground fog.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2005
Oct 05, 2005, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 50 observations
My friend Dave Paessler had to return to town for personal business and his 16" Starmaster scope was setting in the middle of the observing field all alone. Being the conscientious friend that I am, I offered to keep his scope company through the evening.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2005
Oct 03, 2005, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 27 observations
It was the second night of the Twin Lakes Star Party and just as the previous night, it was a battle with the high humidity, the fog, and the dew.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2005
Oct 02, 2005, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 5 observations
The evening started well, with Dave Paessler and me pointing out some of the showpiece objects in the sky to a group of interested visitors. Fog quickly started forming over the field as the night air cooled and combined with some high thin clouds, and the observing conditions started to deteriorate quickly.
Mid-South Star Gaze 2005
Apr 10, 2005, Rainwater Observatory, MS - 42 observations
The night was fantastic with none of the dew issues from the previous night. The air was dry and a light breeze kept everything dry. I worked until 3:00 am in the morning and logged 35 of the 50 globulars needed for the AL certificate along with some southern objects that I can’t see from my northern latitude.
Mid-South Star Gaze 2005
Apr 09, 2005, Rainwater Observatory, MS - 22 observations
Friday night was dew to the nth power. This has to be the first time I ever saw water run down the length of the scope tube and drip off the back of the scope. The seeing was not that great and I spent the three hours of clear sky surfing the bright Spring Messier objects.
Mid-South Star Gaze 2005
Apr 08, 2005, Rainwater Observatory, MS - 1 observations
The bleak scene out the window Friday morning did not inspire any confidence in the forecast of clear skies for the day and evening. Fortunately, the clouds showed mercy and became partly scattered allowing quick views of the first thirty minutes of the solar eclipse.
Mid-South Star Gaze 2005
Apr 08, 2005, Rainwater Observatory, MS - 10 observations
Dave Paessler and I drove to Mississippi to attend the Mid-South Star Gaze. Unfortunately, so did some unwanted company including torrential rain, thunderstorms, and tornados. We spent much of our time viewing through sucker holes the first two days.
A real nice surprise
Feb 05, 2005, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 8 observations
With temperatures in the high 50’s throughout the day and a gorgeous clear blue sky, I had hoped for a chance to get some time under the stars. Fortunately, the clear conditions lasted after dark and I rolled the pier with the 120mm refractor onto the back porch.
Sunspot spotting
Jan 15, 2005, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 1 observations
Although it was very cold, I set up the small 60mm scope on the porch and projected the SunNULLs disk onto a drawing board I held in my lap. I sketched the large sunspot group 720 from the images that was projected onto my drawing board.
Catching a comet in the cold winter sky
Jan 14, 2005, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 4 observations
After an eternity of cloudy skies, I welcomed the opportunity to observe anything regardless of the cold and windy conditions. Comet Machholz was near the zenith and the Orion Nebula was well placed above the eastern horizon early in the evening.
2004
Observed for 12.5 hours during 5 sessions while
recording 26 observations of
26 objects with 4 objects being observed for the first time.
ISS crosses the Sun
Dec 18, 2004, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 1 observations
I set up the 120mm refractor and the solar filter on the back porch in hopes of observing a predicted crossing of the International Space Station across the disk of the Sun.
An eclipse of the Moon
Oct 28, 2004, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 1 observations
Ryan and I setup camp on the back porch to watch the lunar eclipse. Ryan and I watched as the shadow of the Earth slowly covered the lunar landscape. As the eclipse reached totality, the clouds began to thicken and a short time after totality, the sky was completely covered.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2004
Oct 14, 2004, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 12 observations
Around midnight, a voice could be heard echoing across the observing field saying "It is clear, it is clear!" Reluctantly, I climbed out of my warm sleeping bag to find a beautifully clear sky but some very cool temperatures.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2004
Oct 10, 2004, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 3 observations
Using the 55mm eyepiece, I lazily toured through the constellation Sagittarius and the rich star field of the Milky Way stopping occasionally to switch eyepieces for a better view of a few Messier objects. No sooner had I began than the clouds claimed the sky and a blanket of ground fog filled the area.
A northern exposure
Sep 08, 2004, Columbine Drive, Dunlap, IL - 9 observations
After many months, I finally had the chance to log an observation session from the backyard of the new house in Dunlap, IL. I setup the 120mm refractor to chase down some Messier objects that I have not logged with that instrument.
2003
Observed for 91.5 hours during 29 sessions while
recording 411 observations of
363 objects with 268 objects being observed for the first time.
Frankenstein lives!
Dec 21, 2003, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 20 observations
Several members of the WKAA and myself gathered at the Golden Pond Observatory for some winter observing. This was the first session with the 120mm short-tube refractor and rebuilt CG5 tripod (Frankenstein).
Twin Lakes Star Party 2003
Oct 25, 2003, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 28 observations
The second day of the Twin Lakes Star Party brought clear skies early in the day, which allowed me to get some images of the Sun sporting two major sunspots on its surface.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2003
Oct 24, 2003, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 29 observations
Ryan and I assembled our scopes near the center of the field and we turned the LX200 towards the Sun to view the two large Jupiter-sized sunspots visible on the surface.
The opposition of Mars
Aug 27, 2003, Seven Oaks, Peoria, IL - 1 observations
I mounted my ETX-90 OTA on the parallelogram binocular mount and managed to view Mars within a few hours of opposition from the balcony of my apartment. The weather and the seeing cooperated giving me an excellent view of Mars at high power.
The full moon is rising
Aug 09, 2003, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 2 observations
With the nearly full Moon shining low in the southeast, it was not hard to decide what objects to show the Summer Nights program participants this evening. I stayed till later in the evening to view Mars as it rose above the treetops to the southwest.
Summer nights public program
Jul 27, 2003, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 18 observations
This evening was a monthly meeting of the WKAA astronomy club and we were treated to a wonderful evening with cool temperatures and a clear sky. As darkness fell, the WKAA members and I spent a couple of hours showing off our favorite objects in the night sky.
A new dark sky site
Jul 26, 2003, Pennyrile State Park, KY - 43 observations
Dave Paessler, Ross Workman, and I decided to take advantage of the weather and schedule some observing at the Pennyrile State Park. I built an observing list to hunt down some Herschel list and surrounding objects that would be at the zenith.
A daylight view of the Sun
Jul 04, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 1 observations
Using a full aperture Thousand Oaks Type II glass solar filter on the 8" SCT, some photos of sunspot region 349 were taken with various filters.
Astronomy to the public
Jun 29, 2003, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 16 observations
This evening was a monthly meeting of the WKAA astronomy club. After conducting the club business several members and I setup our scopes on the observing field for the Summer Nites programs. Later I chased down some Caldwell objects that I had yet to log.
A dance with the ladies
May 04, 2003, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 42 observations
This evening was a monthly meeting of the WKAA astronomy club. After conducting the club business several members and myself setup our scope on the observing field under the clear skies to log some observing time.
Shooting the Sun
May 03, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 1 observations
I used a full aperture Thousand Oaks Type II glass solar filter on the 8" SCT to take some photos of the sunspot region 349.
Mid-South Star Gaze 2003
Apr 26, 2003, Rainwater Observatory, MS - 47 observations
Dave Paessler and I attended the 2003 Mid-South Stargaze in French Camp Mississippi. I worked on the Herschel and Caldwell Astronomical League lists during the star party.
The pre-star-party party
Apr 23, 2003, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 25 observations
Dave Paessler and myself decided to take advantage of a clear night for some observing at the Golden Pond Planetarium. I had built a list of objects for the Mid-South Stargaze later in the week but decided to start working on the list this evening.
A lazy spring observation session
Apr 11, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 1 observations
Ryan and I setup our scopes this evening for a leisurely evening of gazing at the moon and the planets. I scanned along the terminator on the lunar surface for quite a while marveling at the relief detail.
Sweeping up an asteroid
Apr 08, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 2 observations
A sunrise ray was predicted in the crater Gemma Frisius this evening and I setup the six-inch scope early to catch the event. The asteroid Vesta was six-magnitude in the constellation Virgo, which I chased down early in the evening before observing the sunrise ray on the moon.
Putting the big eye on the sky
Apr 06, 2003, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 9 observations
Tonight was a regular meeting of the Western Kentucky Amatuer Astronomers at the Golden Pond Planetarium. After the meeting we emerged from the observatory to be greeted with mediocre skies and a light haze lit by the three-day old moon in the eastern sky.
Catching the Moon and Mercury
Apr 04, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 1 observations
I went out just after sunset to catch the Moon above the horizon with bright Mercury close by.
An early view of the Moon
Apr 03, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 1 observations
I wandered outside after sunset to catch a glimpse of the early crescent moon for the Astronomical Lunar Club list requirements.
Late to bed, early to rise
Mar 31, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 1 observations
After the late night, it was difficult to rise early enough to catch the moon just over the horizon before the sun rose. I needed to observe the crescent moon this morning, a part the Astronomical League Lunar club checklist.
Testing the new Newt
Mar 31, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 36 observations
Even though afternoon clouds persisted, Dave Paessler and I decided to take a trip to the Golden Pond observatory in hopes that the skies would clear after sunset. I set up the new six-inch Newtonian on a GEM mount for its first light.
Early morning Moon
Mar 30, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 1 observations
I set the alarm to rise early enough to catch the moon just over the horizon before the sun rose.
The far side of the Moon
Mar 18, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 1 observations
Now that the full moon has arrived and with a clear night, it was a chance to observe the last crater with binoculars needed to complete the binocular portion of the Astronomical League Lunar club checklist.
Cows jumping over the Moon
Mar 16, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 8 observations
It was yet another beautiful evening with clear skies and just a few high-thin cirrus clouds scattered about. I setup the binoculars and the 114mm telescope and continued working on the Astronomical League Lunar club checklist.
Fly me to the Moon
Mar 13, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 4 observations
Another evening with clear skies and just a few high-thin cirrus clouds scattered about prompted me to setup the binoculars and the 114mm telescope to continue working on the Astronomical League Lunar club checklist.
Looking over the lunar landscape
Mar 12, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 18 observations
The high-thin cirrus clouds that provided a spectacular sunset quickly dissipated and left somewhat clear skies with only an occasional thin cloud passing by. I continued working on the Astronomical League Lunar club checklist.
Another tour of the Moon
Mar 10, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 14 observations
Wanting to continue with some lunar observations from a couple of days ago, I setup the 114mm telescope and put the 20x70 binoculars on the parallelogram mount.
Wide view of the moon
Mar 08, 2003, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 8 observations
The weather had been horrendous for over a month with clouds, snow, and frigid temperatures keeping even the most dedicated amateur astronomer indoors. The clear skies this evening was all the incentive I needed to pull the scope into the driveway for some planetary and lunar observing.
A night with the hunter
Feb 02, 2003, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 11 observations
The afternoon clouds did not inspire any confidence in getting some observing time after the monthly WKAA meeting. After the meeting concluded, we were greeted with somewhat clear skies to the south and clearing skies to the north and west.
The first session of the new year
Jan 26, 2003, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 22 observations
David Paessler, Ross Workman, Vince Medlock, Tim Camden and I met at the observatory for the first observation session of the new year. The weather for the past month has not cooperated at all, leaving all of us wanting for some quality time under the stars.
2002
Observed for 102.5 hours during 32 sessions while
recording 519 observations of
441 objects with 342 objects being observed for the first time.
Dark winter skies
Dec 29, 2002, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 61 observations
After a couple of weeks of cloudy nights, it was a welcome sight to see the clouds clearing the entire day. Dave Byrd, David Paessler, Vince Medlock, Tim Camden and I made our way to the planetarium for some dark winter skies.
Shooting the Sun
Dec 21, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 1 observations
The sky was clear this morning and I decided to do some solar observing.
The picture perfect Moon
Dec 15, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 5 observations
The bright moon shown high over the tree tops and seemed to beckon me to take a close look. I setup the 203mm SCT in the backyard and loaded the video camera in the eyepiece holder. I managed to take images of a few craters along the terminator.
First light for the 35mm Panoptic
Dec 01, 2002, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 51 observations
David Paessler, Vince Medlock, and I met at the Golden Pond observatory for a night of observing under some of the best skies this year. This evening was first light for my new 35mm Panoptic eyepiece and I was excited about seeing how my "birthday present" would perform in the scope.
Watching the Algol eclipse
Nov 13, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 1 observations
This evening was spent periodically checking and noting the eclipse of Algol.
Observing with friends after the Moon sets
Nov 09, 2002, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 24 observations
Some WKAA members scheduled an observing session this evening at the Golden Pond observatory. I began the session with a list of Herschel objects in Perseus and Auriga. Afterwards, I used the 20x70 binoculars to observe some the deep-sky binocular objects. I followed this with the last double star observations needed to finish the astronomical league certificate requirements.
Deep sky binocular bonanza
Nov 08, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 17 observations
The Sun finally decided to make an appearance after nearly two weeks of constant cloud cover. When night fell, I took out the 20x70 binoculars and some charts to work on the Deep-Sky binocular requirements.
The Moon and star clusters
Oct 23, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 42 observations
The weather since the Twin Lakes Star Party had not been very cooperative and I had little opportunity to get any observing done. I started work on completing the Urban Club and Deep-Sky binocular lists this evening. After the moon had risen above the trees, I began working on the Lunar Club list.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2002
Oct 06, 2002, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 12 observations
Although my work schedule only allowed me to attend the last night of the Twin Lakes Star Party, it was a wonderful evening for observing. I spent the first portion of the evening talking with visitors, giving naked eye tours of the constellations and pointing out interesting sights.
Not your usual nights observing
Sep 08, 2002, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 9 observations
It was a club meeting evening and a chance to get the scope out under some dark skies. As everyone busied himself or herself with setting up their equipment, an aurora on the northern horizon provided quite a show to start the night. Later, a slow moving meteor slid from the southwestern sky towards the east.
Looking through the fog bank
Sep 04, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 18 observations
With a chance to get some observing time in, I decided to work on the constellations near the zenith and try for some planetary nebula and globular clusters from the Herschel list. Unfortunately as midnight approached, the seeing began to deteriorate and a light fog began to permeate the sky.
Only one thing on my mind
Aug 22, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 5 observations
My sole intention for venturing out this evening with some binoculars was to log the Coma Star cluster before it sank below the western horizon. This was one of the Urban Club targets that I had yet to log. Afterwards, I toured through Cygnus and Sagitta viewing some of my favorite binocular targets.
A splendid nights observing
Aug 04, 2002, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 6 observations
Although it was very hot and humid, I took my equipment to the planetarium to help with the weekly Summer Nights outreach program. The night turned out to be splendid, with the Milky Way putting on a show for the visitors. It was, by far, the best seeing I have experienced in several months.
The long dark night
Jun 16, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 39 observations
Predictions for a superbly clear night and cool, comfortable temperatures seemed to be coming true as evening approached. My target lists for the evening included some double stars along the eastern and northern horizon, some Urban club planetaries, and finally several Messier and Herschel objects in Scorpio and Sagittarius.
Skimming the tree tops to the South
Jun 09, 2002, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 7 observations
I spent the public observing portion of the evening letting people see a couple of the showcase objects in the sky such as M13 and M57. Although it was a night of second-rate seeing, at times, it seemed to clear up and I got some nice views. After the public had left, I began working on some of the Messier objects in Ursa Major.
Some time with an old friend
Jun 07, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 3 observations
The 4.5" Newtonian reflector has been sitting idle in the corner since the LX200GPS has arrived. On a whim, I decided to take it out under the stars and do some Messier hunting in Scorpio and Sagittarius.
Taking it to the streets
Jun 02, 2002, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 4 observations
This was the first time I had the opportunity to participate in the public observing portion of the Summer Nights program sponsored by the Golden Pond Planetarium. I setup the LX200GPS on the concrete pad in front of the observatory and pointed it at Gamma Leonis. After the public has departed, I turned my attention to looking for some Messier and Caldwell objects on the southern horizon.
In the arms of a lady
May 14, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 26 observations
By dusk, the skies had completely cleared and, although cool, it looked to be a great evening for observing. I wanted to take advantage of the new moon and work on the galaxies in Virgo, mainly concentrating on the Messier objects I have yet to log.
Double vision gets the best of me
May 05, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 49 observations
I certainly did not want to waste the first clear night in nearly two weeks, especially when it fell on a weekend. Although the weather forecast predicted rain, Saturday was a beautiful day and as night approached, the clear skies persisted. I setup my equipment in the backyard and began work on the Astronomical League Double Star list.
Big eye on the moon
Apr 24, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 5 observations
With the eleven day old moon lying near the meridian, it was a great opportunity to work on some of the telescope objects from the Astronomical League Lunar Club list. This would be the first moon light for the SCT scope.
Mid-South Star Gaze 2002
Apr 13, 2002, Rainwater Observatory, MS - 17 observations
Ross Workman, John Holland, Dave Paessler and I attended the Mid-South Stargaze 2002 in French Camp, MS. Although the weather was not the best, I did manage to get some observing in Friday night, touring the constellations from Orion to Leo logging mostly Messier objects.
Scanning the skies with friends
Apr 07, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 4 observations
I decided to work on some more double stars when darkness finally arrived. Dave Paessler stopped by to see the new scope and we spent some time hopping around the sky and checking the scopes optics.
Scanning through urban skies
Apr 02, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 20 observations
It was another wonderful evening with warm temperatures and clear skies. I could not let this opportunity pass without bringing out the scope. I decided to work on the Urban Club observing list and then move over to the Double Star list.
The big eye on the sky
Apr 01, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 20 observations
I decided to make use of the clear night and warm temperatures to work on some double stars and some objects in the Urban Club observing list. The 8" scope should help resolve some of the fainter objects previously missed with the 4.5" scope.
Catching a comet in the night sky
Mar 22, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 1 observations
I braved the cold and the wind to get a peek at Comet Ikeya-Zhang this evening with binoculars. Even in a slight twilight, with a quarter moon at the zenith the comet was a spectacular sight.
Moon view in the scope, nine days old
Feb 23, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 3 observations
The nine day old moon was prominently placed high above near the meridian. With such a sight, I could not help but setup the scope to work on the Lunar Club list.
Looking over the lunar landscape
Feb 21, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 19 observations
Thanks to an e-mail alert, I was able to get the scope set up in time to catch the reappearance of the moon as it slid from behind the bright limb of the moon. After viewing Saturn, I turned my attention to the terminator along the moons surface.
A walk with the dogs
Feb 17, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 13 observations
It was another clear night with unseasonably warm temperatures and I could not pass up the opportunity to work with the big binoculars. I grabbed some charts for binocular objects from the Urban and Deepsky Binocular target lists in the area of the constellations of Canis Major and Monoceros.
Cold, dark nights with the hunter
Feb 14, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 14 observations
It was a fantastically clear night, which usually means a cold night at this time of the year and this night was no exception. Fortunately, the wind was very calm; otherwise, the chill in the air might have been too much. I worked with some charts for binocular objects from the Urban and Deepsky Binocular target lists in the constellations of Orion, Taurus, and Monoceros.
Big binos and dark skies
Feb 10, 2002, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 12 observations
I decided to take the big binoculars to the dark sky site along with some charts to work on the incomplete items in my Messier binocular list. After setting up the binocular mount, Jupiter was just becoming visible and I took the opportunity to get a quick view.
Short winter doubles tour
Jan 22, 2002, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 4 observations
I had purchased some the Plössl eyepieces in intermediate focal lengths to extend the range of magnifications available through my scope. Tonight I hoped to test these eyepieces on some double stars.
Chasing Messier's in the cold dark night
Jan 13, 2002, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 7 observations
Although it was somewhat on the chilly side, the clear, dark skies above made any discomfort from the temperature more than tolerable. I had my copy of The Year-Round Messier Marathon Field Guide and hoped to concentrate on telescope observations of the Messier objects in Taurus, Orion and the surrounding constellations.
2001
Observed for 59.25 hours during 15 sessions while
recording 285 observations of
215 objects with 215 objects being observed for the first time.
Small scope and dark skies
Nov 11, 2001, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 11 observations
Although it was not first light for the ETC-90EC, it was the first trip with it out to a dark sky site. I was anxious to see how the optics in the scope would perform under a dark sky in comparison with the performance in the light-polluted skies around Paducah.
Amazing aurora astonishes amateur astronomer
Nov 06, 2001, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 30 observations
I had made a list of some double stars and looked forward to checking a few off. After work, I rushed home and quickly set up the scope in the backyard. As I worked on my double star list, a bright aurora appeared in the sky and put on quite a show.
First light for the ETX90
Nov 04, 2001, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 30 observations
Ryan and I set up his new ETX90EC for its first official observing session. We started the observing session using the Autostar to run through a couple of the guided tours. The ETX90EC performed flawlessly during the evening.
Twin Lakes Star Party 2001
Oct 21, 2001, Golden Pond Observatory, KY - 31 observations
Ryan and I were fortunate enough to be able to attend the 12th annual Twin Lakes Star Party at Golden Pond, Kentucky. During the evening, I managed to view several objects through a variety of scopes ranging from six to twenty inches in aperture. The most amazing view was that of Saturn through a 14.5" inch StarMaster scope.
Checking out the rebuilt telescope
Oct 17, 2001, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 12 observations
I finally decided to rebuild my 4.5” Newtonian telescope. Of course, after the rebuild I had to wait a few days for the weather to clear. Now that I had a clear sky to view, I was ready to test my new optics and eyepieces.
More doubles in the Dolphin
Sep 06, 2001, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 9 observations
It is rare that I get the chance to observe for two nights in a row, but this was one of those occasions. The previous night I had been working on some double star lists in Sagatti and Delphinus and I wanted to continue working through the objects I had not found.
Doubles in the Dolphin
Sep 05, 2001, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 10 observations
To be able to look outside at night and actually see stars was a one hundred percent improvement over the prevailing conditions lately so I headed outside with my binoculars and a few charts that had been collecting dust for the past couple of months. I started to work on some double stars in Sagitta and Delphinus.
Hazy, lazy days of summer
Jun 24, 2001, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 27 observations
Our typical summer haze blanketed the horizon and the high humidity made the seeing awful. When I looked at the street lamp across the street, it seemed to have a bright halo around it. I decided to try for some double stars, hoping the poor conditions would not affect me greatly.
Binocular tour of the Milky Way
Jun 17, 2001, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 23 observations
During the day, the sky was as blue as it had ever seen and I hoped the weather conditions would hold throughout the night. Fortunately, I was not disappointed. I printed some charts for items I had missed in earlier sessions; I wanted to do some house cleaning on the binocular checklists concentrating on the south and southeast horizons.
Hunting Messier's with big binos
Jun 16, 2001, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 20 observations
Mars was a glorious sight just above the treetops to the southeast and I wanted to get some time observing with the telescope. I quickly printed out some charts for the eastern horizon. I hoped to log some Messier objects with my binoculars after I finished observing Mars.
Doubles doubles everywhere
May 28, 2001, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 9 observations
Ryan and I started with double stars in the Big Dipper—Alcor and Mizar—and hopped from double to double in the general area, stopping at ones that could easily be found by memory. We even managed to get a look at M 13, the large globular cluster in Hercules. Later, I moved to Scorpio and continued with my observation lists where I had left off before.
Galaxy hunting in the heart of the lion
May 25, 2001, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 23 observations
Previously, I had built some charts for Messier objects in the constellations of Leo and Cancer hoping for a chance to look for some of the faint galaxies in Leo. The faint stars in the constellation of Cancer were visible with little difficulty in my urban sky, which made this a prime opportunity to try for the faint galaxies in Leo.
New eyes on the skies
May 23, 2001, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 10 observations
Ever since I received my new Oberwerk binoculars, the skies have been full of clouds. The weather finally decided to cooperate as cool, dry air returned. I hoped that I could continue my Messier search through Lyra, Ophiuchus, and Sagittarius and log some new ones.
Quick trip around the globular park
May 17, 2001, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 3 observations
I looked outside a little late in the evening and noticed the clouds had parted and it was just a bit hazy. I grabbed my big binoculars and decided to look for some of the objects I missed earlier in the week.
Binocular bonanza
May 15, 2001, Franklin Street, Paducah, KY - 37 observations
The sky was a deep blue color the entire day, that deep blue color that tells you the atmosphere is transparent to the edge of space. This would be the first session in which I intended to record my notes and observations for the objects seen throughout the night.