Clear Skies Diary S Wales 2013

[stevetynant]

Day 106 16th April 2013 Observable nights 2013 36 / 106 33.96%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 8

Rain during day 47/106 Snow during day 27/106

Consecutive Non Observable nights 0 (starting x Apr 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights 1 (starting 16 April 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 19 Apr 13) 8 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 75% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 13.2 C 5th Mar 2013 14:30

Astro Panel - not looking too bad over the next few days

Personal Observing sessions - 10 (Personal excuses used 5 : Ice, Too Cold, Too Tired, Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 33.96 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

Last night was a pleasant suprise - little bit of high cloud later on and the moon is now a bit of a pain but glad to see Orion again before it makes its journey South for the Summer.

[stevetynant]

Day 107 17th April 2013 Observable nights 2013 36 / 107 33.64%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 8

Rain during day 48/107 Snow during day 27/107

Consecutive Non Observable nights 1 (starting 18 Apr 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights 0 (starting x April 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 19 Apr 13) 8 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 75% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 13.2 C 5th Mar 2013 14:30

Astro Panel - looking good for Thursday, Friday and Saturday now but the moon is half full which is a shame but best take the chances when you have them I think as the dark nights recede

Personal Observing sessions - 10 (Personal excuses used 5 : Ice, Too Cold, Too Tired, Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 33.64 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

Wind was horrendous last night - clear skies or not no observing in that storm - looking good now for a few nights - think I may get thescope out in the garden for an hour later on this evening may be the last time it comes out of the cupboard until the Autumn now.

[stevetynant]

Day 108 18th April 2013 Observable nights 2013 36 / 108 33.33%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 8

Rain during day 48/108 Snow during day 27/108

Consecutive Non Observable nights 2 (starting 18 Apr 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights 0 (starting x April 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 19 Apr 13) 8 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 75% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 13.2 C 5th Mar 2013 14:30

Astro Panel - Thursday a bit of a let down but still looking good Friday and Saturday

Personal Observing sessions - 10 (Personal excuses used 5 : Ice, Too Cold, Too Tired, Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 33.33 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

[stevetynant]

Day 111 21st April 2013 Observable nights 2013 38 / 111 34.23%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 10

Rain during day 49/111 Snow during day 27/111

Consecutive Non Observable nights 1 (starting 21 Apr 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights 0 (starting x April 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 66% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 13.2 C 5th Mar 2013 14:30

Astro Panel - Decent chance on Tuesday night but the moon will be full

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 5 : Ice, Too Cold, Too Tired, Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 33.33 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

[stevetynant]

Day 112 22nd April 2013 Observable nights 2013 38 / 112 33.93%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 10

Rain during day 50/112 Snow during day 27/112

Consecutive Non Observable nights 2 (starting 21 Apr 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights 0 (starting x April 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 66% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 13.2 C 5th Mar 2013 14:30

Astro Panel - Decent chance on Tuesday night but the moon will be full

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 5 : Ice, Too Cold, Too Tired, Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 33.93 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

[Lenny147]

Great log this mate, well done for keeping this going , very interesting

[stevetynant]

Great log this mate, well done for keeping this going , very interesting

Thanks Lenny its pretty subjective really - whats observable to me someone else 5 miles down the road might have a different perspective on but so far, to me at least, its proving things are not as bad as we all imagined going by our estimates Of course we still have to navigate the great British summer but we're due a good one hopefully so fingers crossed.

Day 113 23rd April 2013 Observable nights 2013 39 / 113 34.51%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 11

Rain during day 50/113 Snow during day 27/113

Consecutive Non Observable nights 0 (starting x Apr 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights 1 (starting 23 April 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 66% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 13.2 C 5th Mar 2013 14:30

Astro Panel - Looking good again tonight

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 5 : Ice, Too Cold, Too Tired, Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 34.51 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

Lovely night last night - shame the moon was huge in the sky and tonight is looking to be the same as it would have been a great way to finish off the season at home with Saturn high in the sky - never mind- looks like the drop into colder weather is timed typically for the weekend so take advantage while you can.

[stevetynant]

Day 114 24th April 2013 Observable nights 2013 39 / 114 34.21%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 11

Rain during day 51/114 Snow during day 27/114

Consecutive Non Observable nights 1 (starting 24 Apr 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights 0 (starting x April 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 66% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 13.2 C 5th Mar 2013 14:30

Astro Panel - Full moon and lots of clouds for a while - time for some maintenance

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 5 : Ice, Too Cold, Too Tired, Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 34.21 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

Not looking good for the foreseeable - at least the moon is draining its luminence over the next week or so

[stevetynant]

Day 115 25th April 2013 Observable nights 2013 39 / 115 33.91%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 11

Rain during day 52/115 Snow during day 27/115

Consecutive Non Observable nights 2 (starting 24 Apr 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights 0 (starting x April 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 66% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 13.2 C 5th Mar 2013 14:30

Astro Panel - Full moon and lots of clouds for a while - time for some maintenance

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 5 : Ice, Too Cold, Too Tired, Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 33.91 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

[stevetynant]

Day 116 26th April 2013 Observable nights 2013 39 / 116 33.62%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 11

Rain during day 52/116 Snow during day 27/116

Consecutive Non Observable nights 3 (starting 24 Apr 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights 0 (starting x April 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 66% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 17.8 C 23rd April 2013 08:30

Astro Panel - Moons getting later rising now and for the next few night = Monday especially things are looking pretty promising

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 5 : Ice, Too Cold, Too Tired, Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 33.62 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

Some decent weather and skies on the horizon for those who still want to stay up late enough to take advantage.

[stevetynant]

Day 117 27th April 2013 Observable nights 2013 40 / 117 34.18%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 12

Rain during day 52/117 Snow during day 27/117

Consecutive Non Observable nights 0 (starting 24 Apr 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights 1 (starting 27 April 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 66% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 17.8 C 23rd April 2013 08:30

Astro Panel - Moons later rising now and for the next few night = Monday especially things are looking pretty promising

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 5 : Ice, Too Cold, Too Tired, Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 34.18 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

Was a great night last night for anyone wanting to be outside but its just so damned late when it gets properly dark now- just struggling to stay awake long enough to get things sorted out.

[stevetynant]

Day 118 28th April 2013 Observable nights 2013 40 / 118 33.89%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 12

Rain during day 53/118 Snow during day 27/118

Consecutive Non Observable nights 1 (starting 28 Apr 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights 0 (starting x April 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 66% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 17.8 C 23rd April 2013 08:30

Astro Panel - Monday and especially Tuesday nights looking good now

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 5 : Ice, Too Cold, Too Tired, Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 33.89 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

Looking good now for the next few nights but my home observing has come to an end as I start my new patio project and have demolished a shed I had since we moved into the house 20+ years ago - back garden full of broken wood and rubbish at the moment - oh well should be good for the start of next year.

[stevetynant]

Day 119 29th April 2013 Observable nights 2013 41 / 119 34.45%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 13

Rain during day 53/119 Snow during day 27/119

Consecutive Non Observable nights 0 (starting x Apr 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights 1 (starting 29 April 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 66% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 17.8 C 23rd April 2013 08:30

Astro Panel - Monday and especially Tuesday nights looking good now

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 5 : Ice, Too Cold, Too Tired, Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 34.45 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

Frost on the car this morning - wasn't expecting that. Last night was stunning - pity it wasn't on the weekend but an absolute pleasure just to look up.

One more clear night tonight and April joins the best observable month of 2013.

[stevetynant]

Day 120 30th April 2013 Observable nights 2013 42 / 120 35.00%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 14 35.00 %

May 13 Observable nights

Rain during day 53/120 Snow during day 27/120

Consecutive Non Observable nights 0 (starting x Apr 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights 2 (starting 29 April 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 66% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 17.8 C 23rd April 2013 08:30

Astro Panel - Wednesday night could be the last until the weekend looking at the forecast

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 6 : Summer Recess,Ice,Too Cold,Too Tired,Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 35 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

Another clear night with the moon out of sight - April was a pretty good month over all - now we're into the lighter evenings - not so easy to observe some of the fuzzies but if its clear, theres stars about I'm still classing as observable.

[stevetynant]

Day 121 1st May 2013 Observable nights 2013 43 / 121 35.53%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 14 35.00 %

May 13 Observable nights 1

Rain during day 53/121 Snow during day 27/121

Consecutive Non Observable nights 0 (starting x Apr 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights 3 (starting 29 April 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 66% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 17.8 C 23rd April 2013 08:30

Astro Panel - Weekend in the balance at the moment

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 6 : Summer Recess,Ice,Too Cold,Too Tired,Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 35.53 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

Please God this isn't our summer.

[Rhys Hardwick]

I was just thinking the same. May was the only nice month last year not again .... Anyway, going to make the most of it and take a peek at the sun later.

How's it looking for Saturday night? Predictions?

[stevetynant]

Not looking great Rhys I'm afraid to say but fingers crossed things will turn around this afternoon

Day 123 3rd May 2013 Observable nights 2013 44 / 123 35.77%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 14 35.00 %

May 13 Observable nights 2

Rain during day 54/123 Snow during day 27/123

Consecutive Non Observable nights 1 (starting 3rd May 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights x (starting x May 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 6 66% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 18.0 C 2nd May 2013 17:00

Astro Panel - Weekend still in the balance at the moment

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 6 : Summer Recess,Ice,Too Cold,Too Tired,Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 35.77 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

Not looking great for the next few days folks - but on a positive note the nights are getting much warmer - can see beer, bins and star map evenings just on the horizon.

[stevetynant]

Day 125 5th May 2013 Observable nights 2013 44 / 125 35.2%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 14 35.00 %

May 13 Observable nights 2

Rain during day 55/125 Snow during day 27/125

Consecutive Non Observable nights 3 (starting 3rd May 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights x (starting x May 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 7 78% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 20.4 C 6th May 2013 16:00 HIGHEST TEMPERATURE OF THE YEAR SO FAR

Astro Panel - Possibilities tonight but that may be it for the week

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 6 : Summer Recess,Ice,Too Cold,Too Tired,Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 35.2 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

[stevetynant]

Day 126 6th May 2013 Observable nights 2013 44 / 126 34.92%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 14 35.00 %

May 13 Observable nights 2

Rain during day 55/126 Snow during day 27/126

Consecutive Non Observable nights 4 (starting 3rd May 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights x (starting x May 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 7 78% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 20.4 C 6th May 2013 16:00

Astro Panel - Possibilities tonight but that may be it for the week

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 6 : Summer Recess,Ice,Too Cold,Too Tired,Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 34.92 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

Last night was bit disappointing with high cloud dominating - perhaps another chance tonight but not overly confident again.

[stevetynant]

Day 127 7th May 2013 Observable nights 2013 44 / 127 34.64%

January 13 Observable nights 3 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights 14 50.00% Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights 11 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights 14 35.00 %

May 13 Observable nights 2

Rain during day 55/127 Snow during day 27/127

Consecutive Non Observable nights 5 (starting 3rd May 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights x (starting x May 2013) Record Consecutive Observable Nights 9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 7 78% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 20.4 C 6th May 2013 16:00

Astro Panel - A window of opportunity from about 10pm tonight possibly

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 6 : Summer Recess,Ice,Too Cold,Too Tired,Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 34.64 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

Work started on my new observing platform Patio - cleared the garden shed and rubbish that had accumulated over 25 years - just need some dry weather over the next few weeks to get things moving in the right direction.

[stevetynant]

Day 128 8th May 2013 Observable nights 2013 44 / 128 34.38%

January 13 Observable nights_____3_____ 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights ___14 ____50.00%_____ Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights_____11____ 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights_______14_____35.00 %

May 13 Observable nights________ 2

Rain during day 56/128 Snow during day 27/128

Consecutive Non Observable nights 6 (starting 3rd May 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights____ x (starting x May 2013)_ Record Consecutive Observable Nights __9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 7 78% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 20.4 C 6th May 2013 16:00

Astro Panel - Saturday night offers a glimpse of opportunity

Personal Observing sessions - 11 (Personal excuses used 6 : Summer Recess,Ice,Too Cold,Too Tired,Flu and moon too bright)

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 34.38 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

[L8-Nite]

........................ just need some dry weather over the next few weeks to get things moving in the right direction.

Me too Steve, me too.

[stevetynant]

Day 129 9th May 2013 Observable nights 2013 44 / 129 34.10%

January 13 Observable nights_____3_____ 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights ___14 ____50.00%_____ Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights_____11____ 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights_______14_____35.00 %

May 13 Observable nights________ 2

Rain during day 57/129 Snow during day 27/129

Consecutive Non Observable nights 7 (starting 3rd May 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights____ x (starting x May 2013)_ Record Consecutive Observable Nights_____9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 7 78% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 20.4 C 6th May 2013 16:00

Astro Panel - not looking good in the short term

Personal Observing sessions - 11

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 34.10 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

May getting off to an apalling start - looking at whats happened so far this year I think 35% can be considered a good month and anything 50% plus exceptional.

[stevetynant]

Day 130 10th May 2013 Observable nights 2013 44 / 130 33.85%

January 13 Observable nights_____3_____ 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights ___14 ____50.00%_____ Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights_____11____ 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights_______14_____35.00 %

May 13 Observable nights________ 2

Rain during day 58/130 Snow during day 27/130

Consecutive Non Observable nights 8 (starting 3rd May 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights____ x (starting x May 2013)_ Record Consecutive Observable Nights_____9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 7 78% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013 - 5.2 C 24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 20.4 C 6th May 2013 16:00

Astro Panel - not looking good in the short term

Personal Observing sessions - 11

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 33.85 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

This period is turning into an observing drought after a great end to April - tomorrow is the equal longest non observing period of 2013 with no end in sight unfortunately

[stevetynant]

Day 132 12th May 2013 Observable nights 2013 45 / 132 34.09%

January 13 Observable nights___3_ ____ 9.67%

February 13 Observable nights __14 ____50.00%_____ Number 1 month so far 2013

March 13 Observable nights____ 11___ 35.48 %

April 13 Observable nights_______14____35.00 %

May 13 Observable nights________ 3

Rain during day 60/132 Snow during day 27/132

Consecutive Non Observable nights 1 (starting 12th May 2013) Record Consecutive Non Observable Nights 9 (18th to 26th March 2013)

Consecutive Observable nights____ x (starting x May 2013)_ _ Record Consecutive Observable Nights_____9 (29 Mar to 6 Apr 2013)

Group Observing Session planned (inc 4 May 13) 9 Group Observing Session Cancelled 7 78% cancelled (Weather related only)

Lowest Temperature recorded during 2013__ - 5.2 C ___24th Jan 2013 20:00

Highest Temperature recorded during 2013 ___ 20.4 C ____6th May 2013 16:00

Astro Panel - not looking good in the short term

Personal Observing sessions - 11

Predictions for observable nights 2013 (Currently at 34.09 %)

Stevetynant 15%, Garethmob 17%, Stuy 15.9%, Astro Joe 19%, Mr Flibble 12.6%, Texas Pete 16.16%, L8-Nite 13.7%, Lenny 147 10.96% , Rhys Hardwick 16.44%, SparkyJon 8.22%

Well who'd have thought it - an oasis of blackness on Saturday night if you can stay up late enough but we'll take that one. Tonight back to the gloom but we're still no more than 9 days in any one stretch of nights on which you can't observe which is pretty good I think. Unsuprizingly the rain statistic at nearly every other day is something we probably all knew anyway.