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[Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe]

Impromptu Mini Star Party
21 July 2007

Chicago Astronomer Steve rang me up and suggested that being such a nice day and coming evening, we should partake in a mini session by our favorite spot by Copernicus. Of course, I was a go.

Me with my trusty 4.5" and Steve with his 4" refractor, we pose for a beginning session shot.

Quite a few people came up to us and desired a peek, and of course, being the gentlemen of astronomy...we obliged. Many out of towners and since the Chicago Astronomer is read worldwide, I presented interested individuals with my card for future contact. Some with telescopes lanquishing un-used were encouraged to dust them off, and consult us here on getting the best usage from the instrument.

The Moon, and Jupiter presented good targets this evening, although the skies were a bit hazy. I stayed with the Moon and Steve with a good contrast refractor kept with Jupiter.

I found that a 17mm plossi eyepiece coupled with a 2x Barlow fills the eyepiece perfectly of the Moon and a complimentary sky ring around the satellite.

Steve's Orion refractor presented good dark contrast, almost velvet like background and the four Jovian satellites stood out quite nicely.

During the summer at Chicago's Navy Pier, there is a firework display every Wednesday and Saturday evening. I haven't taken any shots of the pyrotechnics with the Powershot S3 as of yet, and this evening presented a good opportunity...

And with that, the session was over and we went to eat, drink and discuss topics that astronomers like.