I pulled out my telescope last night & got lost in the milky way, LMC & M42. Very clear sky & no light pollution. Haven't enjoyed a night like it for ages, i'm always to tired or couldn't be bothered. The sky was perfect.
Really put the joy back in it, I want to go out tonight too.
It's been a long time up here in Sydney too. Tonight looks promising so far. I might get to join you in spirit with my scope too.
If you can, sit on the Eta Carina nebula for a while. It is highly detailed with lots of delicate dark pillars and 'tiny' star clusters nestled within it. And have a shot at the Homunculous Nebula by kicking up the power on the Eta Carina star itself- it is the bright, orangish looking star sitting in the middle of the brightest 'cloud'. You'll notice the lace-like hour glass nebula bulging out from this star. But you'll need more than 100X to begin to glimpse it.
Sounds like some nights I've had recently - clear and dark. Alas there is a little smoke tonight here too, but not too much. Much to be said for dark country skies!
