One of the great things about observing with other astronomers is the multitude of really neat objects that have been brought to my attention. One of the downsides to this is how quickly it can destroy an observing plan. When I look thru someone elses scope at a neat object, I tend to go and hunt it down with my own scope. With so little time under Spruce Knob like skies I really want to be prepared this year with a good list and then stick with it, rather then chase off after some "new object". So I was thinking maybe some of you who had an idea of some neat objects that you plan on looking at could post some of them hear. That way I could incorporate them into the preplanned list I'm working on. And yes I am putting a list together for 2 nights. Wishful thinking.
West Virginia Observing Plan
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Re: West Virginia Observing Plan
I'm not sure I'm going yet. I need to get with Bob Pody and see what his plans might be for camping and making it strictly an observing trip without the spouses.
However, should I go, once again I must take advanatge of the darkest skies in eastern U.S. That means going after some objects on the Ultimate Observing List...Eistein's Cross will be the # 1 object to nail for me.
Edge On Eddie
Re: West Virginia Observing Plan
Ed,
I might piggy back your Einstein Cross! Been curious about it since you starting bringing it up. I'll be working on my list shortly. I'm only good most likely for Wed. and Thursday evening.
Rob
Re: West Virginia Observing Plan
All those galxies in Eridanus and Fornax for me.
And since I'll have all that aperture, maybe Einstein's Cross.
And what was that UGC galaxy you want me to go after Josh?
Gastronaut
Inside: looking down and looking up; outside only UP! Observe Galaxies and Eat More Fiber and always have an extra Star Diagonal handy!
Re: West Virginia Observing Plan
UGC 10641, a dim edge on comp to NGC 6286 (also an edge on) and NGC 6285 (Arp 293). Hey Ed, all this edge on talk got you interested? These would be good targets for the 20. Have to hit these first though as they are in Draco.
Re: West Virginia Observing Plan
Ed,
I have company over the weekend and so can't go for an extended trip. I can go for a night (maybe 2). The weather is sure unsettled, but Sunday night at CSSP, and Tuesday night at 'the Knob' look hopeful (based on the online weather sites, as of Tuesday noon). I am prepared to drive in either direction if the weather is favorable. SGL-251 and Sullivan Co. are also reasonable candidates.
One thing for sure: it will be cold!
Bob P.
Re: West Virginia Observing Plan
Thanks for the update, Bob.
Tom Gazzillo mentioned he may have a day or 2 as well. My wife will be away this weekend which means I can't go anywhere until she returns. Sunday night and perhaps Monday looks like it could be OK for me. I'll have a better idea as this weeks progresses. Tom and I were thinking Worlds End to reduce the drive and prep time for us.
Yes, cold is here...seems like it was just here! It was nice 2 weeks ago observing in shorts and short sleeves all through the night. Ah well, as Cygnus goes further west...
Edge On Eddie
Re: West Virginia Observing Plan
I bailed on going to West Virginia tomorrow. Good luck to those who do make the trip.
Dave Mitsky
De gustibus non est disputandum.
Re: West Virginia Observing Plan
Can anyone comment on the South horizons at the Knob, and how low we can go? I would like to get a good view of NGC 253 if I can, in Sculptor, which transits around 12:16 at 24 degrees altitude.
Frank
Re: West Virginia Observing Plan
Frank,
I've had great views, lot's of detail, and in those dark skies it's huge!
The southern views of M8 & M20 are fairly good considering the time of year.
Dolly Sods horizons are better, as you know, and maybe we should make a run there the first night.
Gastronaut
Inside: looking down and looking up; outside only UP! Observe Galaxies and Eat More Fiber and always have an extra Star Diagonal handy!