Post by Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe on May 21, 2004 11:30:34 GMT -6
The Hunt for Comet NEAT
The day was cloudy, but as evening approached, the skies cleared somewhat, and I took an impulse chance to see if I could spot Comet NEAT by trekking down to the lakefront and setting up at my usual spot.
The temp was comfortable with a slight breeze from the lake, making the session quite pleasant. I set-up the telescope, waiting for the sky to darken, and focused on Saturn as my first target. As each night progresses, Saturn is sinking lower and lower toward the horizon at sundown. Pretty soon we won't be able to view it as a night time object, and will have to catch before the sunrise.
The rings were displayed wonderfully for all of us to see, globe and rings tinted yellow. The Cassini division was plainly visible, but it's largest moon, Titan, was not seen.
I then focused on Venus, shining like a arc lamp in the west. Thru the eyepiece, the crescent shape of the planet mimicked our own moon and incredibly bright. I certainly do hope for clear skies on the 8th of June for the rare transit of Venus traveling across the face of the Sun.
Still waiting for darker skies, I aimed toward Jupiter. Three of the larger moons were visible, and the bands on the planet stood out nicely.
People were stopping by, asking questions and desiring a peek thru the scope. At this time, Sarwat, newsletter subscriber, chanced on stopping by and joined the session. He brought along his monster binoculars set on a tripod and set on searching for Comet NEAT.
I was busy chatting with individuals, a church group from Arizona, while Sarwat captured NEAT. Not an impressive object as compared to Comet Hale-Bopp, but cool nevertheless. Members of the church group were taken with the rings of Saturn and were full of questions. Sarwat answered their inquiries professionally and accurately. Hmmmm....I may have to push him into the lake.
The sky was rather mucky with haze and light pollution, so ideal observing conditions were not met that night.
We packed up and went on our ways.
Thanks Sarwat for your participation and knowledge.
Joe
Chicago Astronomer
