Scorpius from California

[Mark at Beaufort]

I have only seen the lower parts of Scorpius once and that was with a small pair of binoculars.

Last night was very clear despite the many firework displays for the 4th July.

I found a reasonable area with not too many lights and used the 15x70 binos. First objects was M4 - so bright compared to the UK. Then down to Cr316 and NGC 6231 - lovely sight. Swinging round the bottom and up to Shaula and then to M7 and M6. As I said I have only seen these objects once before and the view with the larger binos was fabulous.

Hopefully the delights of Sagittarius tonight.

[xtreemchaos]

great report mate.thanks for sharing..charl..

[Scott]

glad you had such an enjoyable night Mark, I'm not sure one night will be enough for Sag. though, I spent months in and around sag/sco whilst home in oz and never got sick of it . 

[Mark at Beaufort]

Thanks for the advice Scott. I am going to Yosemite this afternoon so hope the sky will be darker. I am still here for another week so should get a few nights observing. I want to view the Globs M69, M70 and M54 plus a few NGCs.

[MarkRadice]

Sounds like fun! The false comet around NGC6231 is fantastic through binos isn't it?  Enjoy those dark southern skies.