First Light - at last !

[ralph1245]

After what seems likes weeks waiting to use my new kit the gods ,were kind and after a wet morning the day brightened and the skies cleared. as dusk approached got the scope set up and aligned to the North via compass and waited for my eyes to adjust to the oncoming darkness.

First sight was Jupiter, sitting nicely in the western sky, could see no bands etc and put that down to air over birmingham (to the west of me) - but still happy to sight it. Next I moved to Orion, working down from Betelgeuse, to the belt and down to his sword, viewed M42 , nice and clear with visible nebula.

On to the Pleiades (M45) and a beautiful sight for poor old eyes.

stayed viewing for a good hour, then inside for a cup of tea and shot of GTN (my heart doesn't like icy cold air). Out again just in time to see the ISS go sailing on its serene way over Orion a great first nights viewing.

[Astro Imp]

Hi,

Well done mate, seems you had a great night, the first look at Jupiter and it's moons will live you for a long time.

Clear skies, hopefully.

[mdstuart]

If you can wait up till after 10 try Saturn which rises in the east..

Mark

[ralph1245]

many thanks for your comments Alan and Mark. The forecast looks good for Tuesday onwards, so hopefully I'll be out there again, amazed as always, may even try DSLR and webcam this time !

Ralph

[Nexus 6]

Excellent Ralph, your on the way! plenty more thrilling sights up there for you to enjoy.

Clear Skies