Couple of doubles

[jason.p]

Despite bright moon and rapidly falling temperature I couldn't resist setting up and trying to keep my new year resolution and find a new double or Messier at every opportunity. I chose Cassiopeia as it was "away" from the full glare of the moon. I actually started with the double cluster then went down to Eta Perseus, a new double for me. Really pretty, reddish main star, bluish secondary. Then back to Cassiopeia and Eta. Another new one for me! Fairly easy split, but nice. Tried for Iota, but cold got the better of me, my shoes were getting welded to the patio.

Only a quick session but I'm glad I made the effort. With Cass being almost directly overhead it was also a good opportunity to test my new patio pier. Pleased to say it worked well!

[cotterless45]

Iota is a ticklish little devil, just when you don't expect it, the bright double springs out.

Although clear here until the fog came, the Moon was bleaching everything out,

Nick.