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[RobbW]

So, after my recent purchase of an iPod Touch, I discovered that there are tools available that allow you to control your Go-To scope with an iPod. These tools would certainly help cut down on the number and added weight of electronic gadgets I tend to bring along for observing sessions, namely a big ol' laptop. I couldn't resist, so I splurged on the Orion StarSeek Wi-Fi Module. At the same time, I decided to take a stab at getting real astro-imaging tools instead of trying to jimmy-rig my camcorder onto my scope. I also picked up the Orion Solar System Planetary Imager IV. It's definitely an entry-level camera, but at least it's a tool that was actually designed for imaging.

Needless to say, I am anxiously awaiting warmer weather so I can finally pull my scope out of moth balls and put these tools to task. Until then, I'll be doing a lot of interior astronomical imaging (i.e. taking pictures of the cat) while I learn the system and work out any kinks. I'll keep everyone posted on my progress.

[-=CROMAN=-]

Sounds cool... Maybe I can stop by one night if your out observing around Elgin to check it out. I live in south elgin.

[Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe]

This iPad is a very cool astro ability...the stuff of Star Trek man.

Onward to warmer nights and joint sessions!

[RobbW]

Um, Joe... "joint sessions"? Let's try and keep that on the down-low, okay!

Seriously, I am so jazzed for the weather to warm up! I'm hoping to get my first session in sometime around the end of this month. My wife, daughter, and mother-in-law are going on a girls' vacation to New Orleans for a week. So, if the weather warms up for a couple days and we get a clear night or two, I plan to take everything out for a pre-season shakedown.

This winter has been brutal and WAY to long. A man can subsist on internet astronomy for only so long. I need to get out see the stars for myself!!!

[Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe]

Robb,

As much as I dig astronomy.....it's a good thing to step away from it once in awhile....and the winter hibernation, (with a few outing exceptions), is a good thing for me.

It refreshes me and rebuilds my anticipation of seeing old celestial friends and welcoming old astro buddies.

[RobbW]

I can understand that, Joe, especially for someone who gives as much to public outreach as you do. I haven't been involved in it for long enough to need a break yet, although my wife would beg to differ. Anyway, in addition to my temporary bachelorhood at the end of this month, another event that I'm looking forward to will be the new moon nearest Memorial Day weekend. My wife decided it would be nice for the two of us to enjoy a relaxing weekend alone without my Jr. astronomer. So, she actually took it upon herself to find a weekend getaway within driving distance that had dark skies, at least compared to what I'm used to.

She found a highly-recommended Bed & Breakfast just outside Soldiers Grove, WI called The Inn at Lonesome Hollow. It's out in the middle of BFE on 165 acres of private land. It's nestled in a long, shallow valley with no buildings or light sources other than the B&B itself. The hills on either side block all other sources of light, but are not so high as to severely restrict the views of the night sky. The valley runs north/south so you actually get a great view of the Northern and Southern skies down close to the horizon. On the Dark Sky Finder map, it is located fully in a green zone, but is only two steps and a short hop from a dark blue zone. Reviews on TripAdvisor.com and other sites proclaim the views at night are phenomenal.

So, in a couple months, I get a little R&R from being a Dad AND get to geek out under some nice dark skies!!! We are booked for the Saturday and Sunday nights during Memorial Day weekend. The new moon is the following Wednesday, but according to my planetarium software, the moon will have fully set around 3-4pm those two nights. So, even though it won't be a completely new moon those nights, I won't have to worry about it messing with my views anyway!