The Journey to Mars Begins...

[orion25]

Well, from an observational perspective, at least, lol! I got my first really good look at Mars last night, or should I say, early this morning at about 4 a.m. as the Red Planet cleared the big oak tree to my east. It was bold and bright, and rivaled the brilliant gas giants not far away to the south. I was using my 127mm Mak-Cass, or lil' Mak as I like to call it, which easily revealed the polar cap and a subtle dark region near it. The ruddy color was apparent without the telescope, and was enhanced through the eyepiece. I started out with a 9mm and then moved up to a 6mm. Simply gorgeous! Still a bit late (or early) for other than weekend observing right now, my excitement for Mars this year has definitely received a boost! I just hope there is no global dust storm this perigee!

 

Regards,

Reggie