First group Ob night

[chunkylad (David)]

Hi everyone

I wanted to share with you all my first group observing night experience.

Thanks to "Rajah235" for the suggestion in the first place! I called ahead of time to intro myself, and explain that I'd be showing up late, and would any members still be going at it past 11pm?

Well, Murray Gibson of the Townsville Astronomy Group made me feel very welcome, gave me the address for the meeting, and yes, there would be something still happening after 11pm!

After intros all round it was down some serious star hopping, with the 10" Meade, and 6" EQ Newt, the only two OTAs still operating, as it had clouded over an hour before I got there, most had indeed packed up.

My first sight of the Dumbell Neb, and Tuc 47 through a large aperture.....what can I say but WOW

Aperure fever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Where's that 'phone number for Andrews?????..........

A great night with a nice bunch of very warm and helpful people. I recommend it to everyone. I can't wait for next mont.

Cheers

Dave W

[slice of heaven]

Now your in trouble Dave,there's no cure for that ailment, only temporary relief .

[acropolite (Phil)]

chunkylad wrote

and Tuc 47 through a large aperture.....what can I say but WOW

Nothing like a good glob to get the finance juices flowing.

[toetoe (Peter)]

Thanks for the report Dave, isn't good to view like that through some good gear.

[ving (David)]

well if dont donthave a "she who must be obeyed" then you are set... alas if you do, try flowers and maybe a bit of grovelling to help get the apeture you want

[atalas]

Good to hear you had such a great night Dave and I'm sure you'll be having many more.


Louie

[chunkylad (David)]

Hi

I think that apart from the 'wow' factor that the quality, large aperture equipment offered, my first impression of observing under DARK SKIES set the scene for the entire session.

My mind was boggling at the experience. It highlighted the fact that my backyard observing, under suburban skies is very limited; or , should I say, much more challenging !!!!!!!!!!

Cheers
DAve W

[dhumpie]

Challenging but doable. You will be able to adapt as I have a save the faint fuzzies for dark skies. But I do agree that a good glob in large aperture can help with milking the cash cow

Darren