March 24th, M3, M81 and M82 and Saturn

[dark star]

I went out for a few hours with my 250mm reflector. I had a look at Mars, couldn't see very much. My 150mm Intes MK66 Mak seems to work better on this.

Spent a long time trying to find the Leo triplet of galaxies, as usual could not see them, I think they are impossible in light polluted skies.

I then found M3 a globular cluster in Canes Venatici. This looked great, I haven't seen it for a long time! I then found M81 and M82, which I used to struggle to find. I now find a small triangle of stars, like an arrow, and this always helps me to find them.

I then had a look at Saturn, which looked amazing with the rings and I think I could see some clouds, plus the darkness between the rings and the planet.

I went to bed around 3am very happy!

David

[michael.h.f.wilkinson]

Sounds like a great night. Mars requires some patience, as the brightness can be overwhelming. Take your time and the 10" scope should show a lot of detail.

[Double Kick Drum]

Some of those Leo galaxies have quite a high surface brightness. If you can find anywhere half decent to observe, I reckon you see them.

London does pose a few LP problems. Finding M81 and 82 is quite an achievement given this.