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[dewayne]

What can I say but my new key to the Northmoor Observatory was burning a hole in my pocket.
I left the office to do some office work at home. I need to read two books so I can review them. But, reading wasn't what was on my mind.
Last night (9/3) when it got dark there weren't many clouds in the sky.
I headed to the observatory with my notes and my grandson Dylan (7) in hand.
I got to the door of the observatory and put the key in. It worked.
First hurdle passed.
I went upstairs and opened the dome.
I went through my notes.
Scope cover off.
Clock drive on.
Insert diagonal and adapter.
It dawned on me this telescope is much more high maintenance than Big Enis (a reflector).
This scope must be female. LOL
I also discovered this scope at (I think) 11 feet long is one heavy puppy.
Moving it with its big counterweight is no easy task.
But, it was worth the effort.
I checked out Mizar and Alcor.
We looked at Arcturus.
We scanned Cassiopia.
The stars were huge in the scope, compared to what I see in Big Enis.
I had as much fun realizing I could run this scope as I did looking through it.
Many more good times are ahead.
We have a solar filter for the big girl so I will get to do some solar observing. I'm looking forward to that.
All in all it was a great night.
But, it was cut short.
Clouds rolled in about an hour after dark. I didn't get to look at the Moon.
But, I am prepared now to run the scope when the public shows up tonite.
Uh, oh I'm beginning to feel that burning sensation in my pocket again.

[Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe]

What a great experience to operate that monster scope at your own leisue and pace. I am sure it will be your second home on clear nights, and even on cloudy ones as well. Plenty to maintain and learn. I would like to read more of your experiences with the observatory.

Perhaps if I am in the Peoria area, I can have the quater tour of the observatory.

Is this the Observatory that you conduct your mad sessions in? I rather like the Peoria Astronomical Website...very well assembled.

This is so cool...thanks for sharing!

[dewayne]

I'd be glad to give you the quarter tour if you make it my way.
Last nite was my first time as host for the public observation sessions.
The skies were supposed to be clear but they clouded over early.
My assistant, Rich Tennis, and I had about eight people show up anyway.
When the clouds would break we showed them what we could.
We called it a nite about 9:45. One of the folks there asked about making a donation to our new dome fund.
I took him downstairs to show him the donation jar.
It was gone.
I asked my assistant if he had moved it.
He hadn't.
Someone took the donation jar.
It only had $2 in it.
Well, the guy felt so bad abiout the jar being stolen that he gave us a $20 donation. Not bad.
I just hope this is not a bad omen.